Clinical instructors' perspectives: what should we be teaching in pediatrics?

Pediatr Phys Ther. 2012 Summer;24(2):183-91; discussion 192. doi: 10.1097/PEP.0b013e31824d0e8a.

Abstract

Purpose: This study explored clinical instructors' perspectives regarding specific aspects of pediatric content that should be included in the curricula of entry-level physical therapist education programs.

Methods: This mixed methods sequential explanatory study was conducted using 2 groups of participants. The survey-only group consisted of 278 participants who anonymously completed a Web-based survey. The mixed-data group consisted of 9 purposively selected participants who completed the Web-based survey and participated in a one-on-one qualitative interview that explored their survey responses.

Results: Participants provided recommendations pertaining to the depth and breadth of pediatric content in entry-level curricula. A diagram was created to depict the participants' perspectives on how pediatric content in the entry-level curricula should be structured.

Conclusion: Clinical instructors offer valuable insights that can be used to guide entry-level curricular content in pediatrics. The results of this study may assist physical therapist faculty in preparing students for entry-level practice in pediatrics.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Curriculum*
  • Education, Medical, Undergraduate / methods*
  • Humans
  • Pediatrics / education*
  • Physical Therapy Specialty / education*
  • United States