Determining the domains of work readiness in physiotherapy: Australian graduate and employer perspectives

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine perceptions of work readiness from Australian physiotherapy graduates and employers. Recent research has described four domains of work readiness: Interpersonal Capabilities, Practical Wisdom, Personal Attributes and Organisational Acumen. Methods: Responses regarding the challenges and facilitatory strategies during the transition from student to physiotherapist were collected using graduate and employer surveys and were thematically analysed using a qualitative, iterative approach. Responses were initially deductively themed using domains derived from prior research and further themes were identified inductively during analysis. Results: A total of 87 graduates and 174 employers participated. Thematic analysis supported the four existing domains of work readiness and an additional two themes (proposed domains) Profession Specific Knowledge and Skills and Professionally Relevant Experiences were identified. Overall, the six domains aligned amongst graduates and employers with nuanced differences. Graduates used an individual, short-term lens and employers with a team-based, long-term view. Conclusion: There was broad alignment between graduates and employers of challenges and faciliatory strategies within the six domains. The domains identified in this study provide a holistic view of work readiness and may be used as a framework to better prepare and support graduates, and to direct learning and development to enhance the transition into the healthcare workforce.