Fostering Inter-Professional Education through Service Learning: The Belize Experience

Occup Ther Health Care. 2021 Apr;35(2):217-226. doi: 10.1080/07380577.2021.1877862. Epub 2021 Jan 29.

Abstract

Service-learning and interprofessional education are forms of experiential learning that instill confidence in students. This pilot study used a post-service learning survey to explore the benefits of interprofessional education in a service-learning experience with students. Findings indicated that this service-learning experience contributed to the development of cultural awareness, and professional skills, as well as increased team attitudes and perceptions related to the respective roles of occupational and physical therapy students. The following report describes students' perspectives and satisfaction concerning professional development, interprofessional education, and cultural awareness utilizing quantitative and qualitative descriptors.

Keywords: Health disparities; interprofessional education; service learning.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Belize
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internationality*
  • Interprofessional Relations*
  • Occupational Therapy / education*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities / education*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Problem-Based Learning*
  • Professional Role*
  • Students, Health Occupations*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult