Student physical therapists’ confidence in appraising and applying research after participating in a weekly journal club

Thomas Almonroeder

doi:10.11157/fohpe.v25i3.770

Authors

Thomas Almonroeder Trine University, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11157/fohpe.v25i3.770

Keywords:

allied health, education, evidence-based practice, physiotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: The objective of this study was to assess changes in student physical therapists’ confidence in their ability to critically appraise research and use research findings to inform their practice after completing a weekly journal club.

Methods: Thirty-four students in a doctoral-level physical therapist education program completed a questionnaire before and after participating in a weekly journal club. The questionnaire asked students to rate their confidence in critically appraising research and using research to inform their practice.

Results: Over the semester, there was significant improvement in students’ confidence in their ability to critically appraise research related to physical therapy practice and their confidence in using research to inform their practice.

Conclusions: In general, it appears that a course-based weekly journal club can be effective for improving student physical therapists’ confidence in their ability to perform some of the key functions required for evidence-based practice.

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