Apr 23, 2024  
2020-21 Graduate Catalog 
    
2020-21 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

PT 887B Independent Study- International Pro Bono Experiences*


This elective course is offered beginning in year one of the entry-level curriculum. The course is designed to offer students the opportunity to explore one international experiential learning. The course provides the student with an opportunity to delve more deeply into the subject matter of international pro-bono care and healthcare for underserved populations. The purpose of this course is to provide the entry-level physical therapist student with an in-depth experience while working with an experienced mentor. The experience is designed to help students who elect to investigate health care models and patient populations in low- and middle-income countries and to provide pro bono services and education during a trip to a specific country. This immersion experience involves critical thinking and evidence-based practice in another country and culture and self-reflection. Students will be mentored by experienced State-side licensed physical therapists. Country-specific requirements and activities will be determined by the faculty mentor and the clinical mentor(s) as appropriate to each project/country.

In order to maximize student learning, to provide quality services, and to promote long-term in-country sustainability, the elective consists of three parts. Prior to travel, the student will investigate the culture, aspects of the health care system, and patient populations of destination country. This will prepare the student to provide culturally-sensitive and appropriate physical therapy services. The student will then participate on an international trip. While in-country, the student will keep a daily journal of his/her experiences and submit a 2-3-page reflection paper within two weeks of their return. Each student will also complete a survey on Qualtrics.