Inter-Professional Education: Inter-Professional Learning Experience of Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry Residency Students

Abstract

Objective: To explore the inter-professional learning experience of clinical psychology and psychiatry residency students. Design: Qualitative study Setting: This research was carried out at Addis Ababa University’s School of Medicine, College of Health Science, Department of Psychiatry, which offers clinical psychology and psychiatry residency programs. The research was carried out between September and April of 2020. Participants: The inter-professional learning experiences of 5 clinical psychology and 4 psychiatry residents were investigated. Methods: A theme analysis was used in a descriptive qualitative investigation. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather information, which was then evaluated thematically. Data was collected and analyzed at the same time. Results: The results revealed three main themes and five sub-themes reflecting clinical psychology and psychiatry students’ experiences. (a) IPE experience, (b) Factors affecting active involvement, and (c) Professional identity and IPE experience were the themes. Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed that IPE experiences vary and are the result of a complex combination of factors. Inter-professional education between participants with different professional status has a significant impact on their IPE experience. To meet the IPE objectives, the learning experience must include a balanced two-way interactive experience among participants.