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Published on: January 17, 2013
Physical therapy student perception of self-reflection activities in a musculoskeletal course: A mixed-method study
Katherine Wilford1, Matthew Morretta1
1College of Rehabilitative Sciences Physical Therapy, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin, Texas, USA.
Background:
Deliberate reflection is an effective method to aid in professional development. Most documented self-reflection activities (SRA) occur during clinical experiences. Literature on SRA within the didactic component of entry-level physical therapy education is lacking.
Purpose:
The purpose of this mixed-method study was to evaluate student perception of in-class SRA.
Methods:
A convenience sample of 61 students in a DPT program was recruited. Students were enrolled in a musculoskeletal course and participated in six 10-minute SRA. At the end of the course, students completed a survey to assess perception.
Results:
Fifty-nine (97%) students completed the anonymous survey. Most reported they would continue SRA in future courses (92%, 55/60) and as a professional (95%, 57/60). Thematic analysis identified SRA promote the professional qualities of self-evaluation, confidence, and clinical excellence. Quiet time, self-evaluation, and sharing with others were identified as benefits of SRA. Curricular threading of SRA in entry-level physical therapy education was strongly suggested.
Conclusion:
Self-reflection activities can be implemented into the didactic portion of entry-level physical therapy education and be perceived positively by students. Future research can assess the impact of SRA on clinical reasoning development during the didactic portion of entry-level physical therapy education.
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