To develop and evaluate new bespoke elective placement opportunities for final year physiotherapy students to engage in placements in teaching and learning leadership, and research.
We planned, delivered, and evaluated innovative physiotherapy elective placements in two distinct learning environments: teaching and learning leadership, and research. Placements were undertaken with eight final year physiotherapy students within one UK university, involving a mixture of campus-based and home study learning activities.
A structured placement programme was developed for all students. The teaching and learning elective student was involved in session design, delivery of evidence-based teaching, assistant teaching and leading observed teaching sessions. Research placement students embarked on collaborative group working with peers and experienced researchers, to develop key research skills and knowledge.
Feedback was sought from all stakeholders through student evaluation and staff experience reporting to assess impact. Self-reflection activities were utilised by students, facilitating personal and professional development.
One physiotherapy student undertook a teaching and learning leadership placement, and seven completed research placements. Student satisfaction was very high and comparable to other physiotherapy placements at the same university. Students reported increased insight into the profession and enhancement of their own skills. The teaching and learning elective student reported increased confidence in presenting and an appreciation of the complexity of delivering physiotherapy education. Research elective students enjoyed the variety of activities, working both as a group and independently. Staff relished the chance to share their area of expertise, positively evaluating the placements. In addition, the placements contributed to overall leadership and research placement capacity, and the formation of new content and materials contributed to programme enhancement.
These excellent and highly valued placement opportunities allowed students to complete their practice hours in an area of choice, facilitated by expert staff to expand their knowledge and skills.
Offering in-house teaching and learning leadership or research elective physiotherapy placements is an appropriate learning opportunity for final year students, building upon skills and knowledge and broadening their profile for employability.
The model could positively impact on reducing the demand for NHS placements and could be implemented across other institutions and AHP programmes, The placements support the development of skills across the four pillars of practice and shaping teaching and learning, and research leaders of the future.
HIgher Education
Innovation
