Original Theory & Research
Exploring Student-Led Interprofessional Education Through a Community Service Project
Authors:
Lindsay A. Doerschuk ,
Eastern Washington University, US
Merri Jones,
Eastern Washington University, US
Ann O'Kelley Wetmore,
Eastern Washington University, US
Doreen Nicholas
Eastern Washington University, US
Abstract
purpose The purpose of this research was to explore the effectiveness of a student-led interprofessional education (IPE) workshop in improving student attitudes and perceptions toward IPE. Students from four health science programs—Dental Hygiene, Communication Sciences and Disorders/Speech and Hearing, Health Services Administration, and Occupational Therapy—participated in a community service event. Students provided screenings to veteran patients, including a health history intake, hearing test, and sleep screening, while other students observed. Methods Students were asked to attend an orientation, a Vets Day IPE workshop, and a debrief session. This mixed-methods approach study utilized the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) to assess students’ attitudes and perceptions toward IPE. The RIPLS (Likert scale) was used as a pre- and posttest to assess changes in students’ scores. The pretest was administered prior to the IPE workshop, and the posttest was administered following the workshop. Qualitative data was derived from a debrief session where students answered guided questions regarding their experience through group discussion. Results Results indicated a statistically significant difference (p<.05) in participants’ attitudes and perceptions toward IPE using the RIPLS. Statistical significance was found within each RIPLS subscale, where participants showed a positive change in their readiness for interprofessional learning. Qualitative data revealed positive feedback about the workshop and enhanced knowledge about different professions. Conclusion The results of this study show that a student-led approach to IPE through a community service project is beneficial in improving student attitudes and perceptions of IPE.
How to Cite:
Doerschuk, L.A., Jones, M., Wetmore, A.O. and Nicholas, D., 2019. Exploring Student-Led Interprofessional Education Through a Community Service Project. Health, Interprofessional Practice and Education, 3(4), p.eP1183. DOI: http://doi.org/10.7710/1183
Published on
07 Oct 2019.
Peer Reviewed
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