Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 25, 2026

Project-Based Learning Guidelines for Health Sciences Students: An Analysis with Data Mining and Qualitative Techniques
Published on: December 9, 2022
Designing, Implementing, and Evaluating a Longitudinal Student Wellness Curriculum: An Educational Innovation in
1Aislinn Hopkins, MSPAS, PA-C, is an assistant professor, PA Hybrid of Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Professions at Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.
Introduction:
Burnout and diminished well-being are increasingly recognized among physician assistant (PA) students, with implications for academic performance, professional identity formation, and long-term workforce sustainability. Many wellness initiatives remain episodic or elective and are insufficiently integrated into required curricula. This educational innovation describes the design, implementation, and evaluation of a required, longitudinal wellness curriculum grounded in evidence-informed frameworks.
Methods:
A multimodal wellness curriculum was implemented across three academic terms within a PA program. Educational strategies included experiential learning, reflective exercises, small-group discussion, and guided self-assessment. Program evaluation focused on feasibility, acceptability, and perceived educational value using a mixed-methods quality improvement approach. Precourse and postcourse surveys included Likert-type items and open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative responses were analyzed thematically.
Results:
In the largest cohort, 75% of postcourse respondents reported stable or improved overall well-being ratings. Across cohorts, learners reported increased awareness of wellness strategies, normalization of discussions related to burnout, and strong perceived value of experiential components. Qualitative themes emphasized protected time for reflection, peer connection, and practical skill-building. Challenges included variable survey response rates and difficulty sustaining behavior change during periods of high academic demand.
Discussion:
A required longitudinal wellness curriculum within PA education is feasible and well-received. Transferable design principles may inform similar initiatives across health profession programs.
Related Concept Videos
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques I
Conscientiousness
Conscientious individuals tend to be organized, responsible, and disciplined. They prioritize completing tasks and following structured routines,...
Longitudinal Studies
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques VI
Motivation and Self-Determination
Motivation, the driving force behind behavior, plays a pivotal role at every stage of the change process. The research...
Longitudinal Research
Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities
Patient-centered Care

