Related Experiment Videos
Reflective logs: an aid to clinical teaching and learning
1Dept of Human Communication Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TA. m.freeman@sheffield.ac.uk
Summary
Learning logs enhance clinical teaching by facilitating goal-setting and feedback. However, student adoption decreases in subsequent placements, suggesting a need to address barriers to sustained use.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Clinical Pedagogy
Background:
- Clinical education requires effective methods for student reflection and feedback.
- University clinics serve as crucial environments for practical skill development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and student perception of learning logs in a university clinic setting.
- To explore factors influencing the sustained use of learning logs in clinical placements.
Main Methods:
- Students utilized learning logs to summarize reflections after clinical sessions.
- Reflections were discussed in subsequent clinical teaching sessions.
- Evaluation involved feedback from clinician-teachers and students.
Main Results:
- Clinician-teachers and students valued learning logs for goal-setting, information exchange, and addressing learning needs.
- Students found learning logs beneficial for feedback and encouraging questions, despite being time-consuming.
- Few students continued using learning logs in later placements, especially off-site.
Conclusions:
- Learning logs are a valuable tool in university clinics, improving clinical teaching and learning.
- Barriers to the consistent application of learning logs in diverse clinical settings require further investigation.
- Strategies to promote sustained use of reflective practices in clinical education are needed.