Exploring Pre-Admission Observation Hours: Pathways to Physical Therapists Students' Learning and Professional Development

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 14
  In Poster Session: Division I. Education in the Professions: Poster Session

Abstract

Although observation hours are a required component of admissions to most physical therapist programs, there is little evidence on how these experiences influence students’ development to and during the first year of the program. To fill this gap, this research examines the essence of observation hours as it is experienced by recent physical therapist graduates. Through a phenomenological methodology, it explores how recent physical therapists come to seek observation hours, develop professional identity, and make meaning of early professional experiences. The findings from this study contribute to what is known about physical therapist career development and call for a reconceptualization of student success in physical therapist education.

Author

• Thuha Hoang, Louisiana State University - Health Sciences Center New Orleans