An application-based, experiential learning course in clinical cardiology: faculty and student perspectives

Area of Science:

• Physiology Education
• Cardiovascular Science
• Experiential Learning

Background:

• Higher education value perception is shifting, impacting college enrollment.
• Career preparation is a key factor in students' perception of college value.
• Experiential learning is increasingly used to enhance career readiness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an experiential learning course in clinical cardiology skills for human physiology students.
• To evaluate the course's efficacy in preparing students for clinical roles.
• To explore student and instructor perspectives on the course's impact on career preparedness.

Main Methods:

• Developed and implemented an experiential course covering electrocardiography, auscultation, blood pressure measurement, and cardiac ultrasonography.
• Solicited student and instructor perspectives on the course.
• Included qualitative evidence from four students and one faculty member.

Main Results:

• The course enhanced critical thinking and subjective knowledge in cardiology.
• Students improved their application of cardiac principles to measurement techniques.
• The course fostered confidence in translating academic knowledge to the workforce.

Conclusions:

• Experiential learning courses effectively build tangible clinical measurement skills for physiology students.
• This type of learning fosters self-confidence alongside skill development.
• Clinically relevant experiences are valuable for enhancing career preparedness in physiology.