Development of a basic evaluation model for manual therapy learning in rehabilitation students based on the Delphi...

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Education
• Medical Education
• Allied Health Professions

Background:

• Manual therapy is integral to rehabilitation education.
• Existing models for evaluating manual therapy learning are insufficient.
• A structured evaluation framework is needed for rehabilitation students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a foundational evaluation model for manual therapy learning.
• To establish the theoretical basis and practical significance of the model.
• To utilize the Delphi method for expert consensus.

Main Methods:

• A literature review and theoretical analysis informed an initial framework.
• The Delphi method involved three rounds of consultation with 15 rehabilitation experts.
• Data analysis used Dview software, with indicator refinement and summarization via Mindmaster.

Main Results:

• High expert response rates (88%-100%) and authority (0.92-0.94) were achieved.
• The finalized model comprises 3 primary, 10 secondary, 17 tertiary, and 9 quaternary indicators.
• A total of 24 indicators were categorized into Cognitive Abilities (8), Practical Skills (10), and Emotional Competence (6).

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive Delphi-based evaluation model for manual therapy learning has been established.
• The model incorporates multi-level indicators across cognitive, practical, and emotional domains.
• This framework offers a preliminary tool for manual therapy education and future research.