Challenges and opportunities in practical training – perceptions of clinical education

Abstract

Th e aim of the present study was to analyse students’ perceptions of clinical education – what kind of learning opportunities they had and what kind of challenges they met. Eighty six diff erent feedback forms were analysed, which were gathered from 28 third-year physiotherapy students aſt er their fi nal practi- cal training was over. Answers to the questions were analysed by the method of content analysis and divided into categories. Students appreciated when they were treated as equals, their opinion was listened to and their preferences were taken into consideration. However, not everybody was satisfi ed with the relationship with supervisor. Respondents mentioned several aspects of the pedagogical skills of their supervisors. Th ese were as follows: increasing students’ independence, planning the learning process, asking questions, and giving feedback. Students were content with their training when they saw dif- ferent patients who had varied diagnoses. Th ey also liked when the placement was well-equipped and the emotional climate was friendly and positive. Some- times students had feelings that they did not do anything educative. Sometimes students felt that the emotional climate was tense or they did not understand the rules.