Graduate Reflective Practice Program: Were Long-term Objectives Achieved?

Abstract

BackgroundReflection has been identified as a deep learning strategy necessary for radiation therapists to foster professional growth, to monitor current practice, and to evaluate the effects of change. To further develop reflective practice in radiation therapists, a department-based reflective practice program was designed and implemented in 2010. The program continues to be delivered annually to each new cohort of graduates. Long-term objectives of the program included the continued use of reflective practice and participation in reflective activities; the ability to communicate knowledge, skills, and values through reflective discussion within the team environment; the further development of clinical knowledge and skills; and the promotion of a reflective culture within the department. AimThe purpose of the research was to establish if the learning program was meeting its long-term objectives. Are these radiation therapists continuing to use the reflective skills they developed during their graduate year? MethodAn online survey was designed to evaluate whether the long-term objectives of the program were being achieved. The target respondents were radiation therapists who had completed their graduate year in 2010 or 2011. ResultsSeven of a possible 10 radiation therapists completed the survey. All respondents perceived they are using reflection in their practice and results indicate that a number of reflective activities are actually being used. The majority of respondents indicated they had initiated reflective practice discussions in their work areas, and the overall perception indicated more frequent intentional reflective practice occurring within the department. ConclusionsThe evaluation of survey responses revealed that radiation therapists who participated in the reflective learning program during their graduate year continued using reflection skills and contributed to reflective activities within the clinical environment.