Abstract
The contribution of clinical placement learning and teaching exposures to nutrition and dietetics competency development: A student perspective
2012 Learning & Teaching Week Program, p.16
Learning & Teaching Week, 2012 (Sunshine Coast, Australia, 20-Aug-2012–24-Aug-2012)
2012
Abstract
Work-integrated-learning components of university dietetic education in Australia are recognised as an important process for nutrition and dietetic competency development. Research is needed to explore the student experience of placements to inform the development and improvement of work-integrated learning environments and to enhance the quality and efficiency of workforce preparation. The objective of this study was to explore the student perception of pre-placement preparation, the clinical placement learning environment, learning exposures and supervision, and the perceived impact of these factors on competency development. This qualitative investigation utilised semi-structured interviews amongst 25 students having recently completed their final clinical placement component, recruited purposively from 3 Australian universities. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was undertaken by the research team with triangular analysis of data by the research team. Students across all three universities generally felt they had adequate theoretical knowledge prior to placement but were less prepared for practical application of their skills in a clinical setting. The learning environment varied across placement sites. Common positive aspects included an open plan office setup, eating with the dietetics team during break times, friendly and approachable supervisor/dietetic team, and clear organisational structure and documentation. The quality of supervision varied considerably and emerged as a significant factor impacting on competency development. Positive experiences of supervision included appropriate supervision and support for stage of placement, constructive, positive feedback and supervisor interest in teaching and student learning. Results provide direction for enhancing the placement learning environment and identify potential areas for further research
Details
- Title
- The contribution of clinical placement learning and teaching exposures to nutrition and dietetics competency development: A student perspective
- Authors
- Judith Maher (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and EngineeringLydia Sutakowsky (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and EngineeringFiona Pelly (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and EngineeringElizabeth Swanepoel (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and EngineeringC Palermo (Author) - Monash UniversityRoger Hughes (Author) - Bond University
- Publication details
- 2012 Learning & Teaching Week Program, p.16
- Conference details
- Learning & Teaching Week, 2012 (Sunshine Coast, Australia, 20-Aug-2012–24-Aug-2012)
- Publisher
- University of the Sunshine Coast
- Date published
- 2012
- Organisation Unit
- Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health - Nutrition & Dietetics; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; Centre for Bioinnovation; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99449030802621
- Output Type
- Abstract
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