Integrating digital technologies into teaching embodied knowledge in the context of physical examination

Abstract

Background: There is a growing presence of digital technologies in clinical learning environments. However, there is little research into how such technologies shape embodied teaching and learning for health professional students. This study aims to explore current teaching practices in health disciplines to illuminate how digital technologies are used to facilitate the development of embodied knowledge during student learning of physical examination. Methods: A qualitative interpretive approach was undertaken, sensitised by body pedagogics as a theoretical frame. In-depth interviews with 18 clinical educators across the disciplines of medicine, physiotherapy, midwifery and nursing were held. These interviews explored their current practices for teaching physical examination. The data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis combined with a ‘thinking with theory’ approach, in which the theoretical framework of body pedagogics was central to guiding the reflexive and interpretative process. Results: We interpreted a framework of five approaches where digital technologies are used to develop bodily knowledge: for sensate knowing; for modelling; for rehearsing; for guiding practice and for providing feedback information. Conclusion: Findings suggest that in current teaching practices, digital technology may be used to facilitate multiple essential elements of physical examination instruction. We conceptualised a framework that extends body pedagogics, where we recognise the multiple roles of digital technology for developing bodily knowledge in the context of physical examination.