Validation of a student satisfaction survey for clinical education placements in dietetics

Finite or shrinking health resources, coupled with increasing clinical student placement demand, raise many challenges, including potential impacts on placement quality. One method of measuring quality is through the use of validated tools and systematic evaluation; however, no validated dietetic student satisfaction surveys could be identified.

An electronic student survey assessing clinical placement satisfaction was developed, using survey items from the literature and questions clinical educators considered pertinent. Pilot testing ensured understandability and content validity. The confidential, electronic student clinical placement satisfaction survey was provided to health services statewide and completed by students following their final placement assessment (160 responses from 290 placements). Forty-seven statements were scored on a 5-point Likert scale (strongly disagree to strongly agree), with overall placement satisfaction assessed on a 10-point scale (very poor to exceptional).

No metropolitan, regional, or remote differences were evident with regard to sample representativeness (n=160). Two factors encompassing 28 items (related to supervisors and clinicial educators) accounted for 78% of the variance. Good internal consistency was evident (Cronbach's alpha 0.98).

This study establishes the construct validity of an instrument by which the satisfaction of dietetic students with their clinical placement can now be evaluated. Knowing students' satisfaction with clinical placements is but one potential outcome measure of a quality educational program, but it is essential for enhancing the educational experience.