Exploring the experiences, preparation and support needs of early career Clinical Educators within a tertiary health service: A qualitative study
Vicky Stirling1, Deborah Fitzgerald1, Moores Moores2, Rachel Wenke11Queensland Health, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia2Queensland Health, Townsville, QLD, Australia
Abstract
Background
To meet the increasing demands for clinical placements, early career health professionals often take on the clinical educator (CE) role. However, there is limited attention in the literature to their preparation and support needs.
This research aimed to explore the experiences of early career occupational therapy (OT) CEs, identifying their preparation and support needs across various practice settings within a tertiary health service.
Methods
We used a qualitative descriptive approach, undertaking semi-structured interviews with early career OT CEs. Participants were in their first four years of practice, educating a student for the first or second time on a placement of five or more weeks duration.
Inductive thematic analysis with integrated team discussion and consensus led to the development of key themes.
Results
Ten occupational therapists, who had been working for an average of two years, consented to participate. Preliminary findings identified that early career OT CEs need support and guidance from experienced staff and practical resources prior to and during the placement. Timely access to these helps CEs to set clear placement expectations, deliver feedback, facilitate learning and evaluate student performance. CEs shared multiple ways the CE role assisted their own skill development. The challenge of balancing student education with work demands was frequently reported.
Discussion
Findings indicate that early career CEs need time, resources and support to perform the CE role. An understanding of how to best support early career CEs allows placement providers to reflect on their approach to CE development, while building and sustaining placement capacity.
Biography
Vicky Stirling has worked as an Occupational Therapy Clinical Education Support Officer for over 10 years, supporting Clinical Educators to deliver quality placement experiences. This position works within the OT State-wide Clinical Education Program. She has also worked clinically in a variety of acute, rehab, community and outpatient settings as well academically in the University sector. Vicky is passionate about promoting initiatives that enhance the development of skilled clinical educators who can provide quality learning experiences to students. Vicky has a particular interest in developing approaches that support the health and wellbeing of students and staff engaged in clinical education.