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Department of Physiotherapy and Sports Science hosts Clinical Instructors workshop to improve training of students

The Department of Physiotherapy and Sports Science at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Faculty of Allied Health Sciences organized a one-day workshop aimed at clinical instructors from affiliated health training sites. This workshop, held on May 24, 2024, at the Physiotherapy and Sports Science Lab 1, brought together over 25 clinical instructors from various clinical institutions affiliated with KNUST within the Ashanti Region. The objective was to equip these instructors with updated knowledge and skills to improve the practical training and assessment of students.

Prof. Monday Omoniyi Moses, Head of the Department of Physiotherapy and Sports Science, spoke about the university’s goal of linking classroom teaching with practical, real-world experience. He emphasized that clinical instructors play a pivotal role in this vision, as they are directly responsible for guiding students in real-world clinical settings. Prof. Monday Omoniyi Moses stressed that these instructors need a clear understanding of the university’s goals and expectations in order to produce skilled graduates who can compete globally.

Benjamin Asamoah, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physiotherapy and Sports Science, elaborated on the expectations placed upon medical instructors. He welcomed the clinical instructors and expressed deep appreciation for their dedication to training students and their willingness to attend the workshop. Mr. Asamoah outlined the specific duties of medical instructors, including the necessity to serve as exemplary role models for students, effective communication strategies; Active listening, Clear instructions, and constructive feedback. The discussion aimed to ensure that the academic lessons taught in the classroom align with what students experience in clinical practice.

Dr. Mensah Bonsu, the Examination Officer of the department, talked about ways to handle difficult students and build good relationships with them in clinical settings. His session provided practical tips for creating a positive learning environment, which helps improve student training.

The workshop ended with an open forum where clinical instructors shared their feedback and discussed ways to strengthen the relationship between the Department of Physiotherapy and Sports Science and the clinical training sites. This discussion aimed to find ways to better support each other in training students who can make a difference worldwide. Overall, the workshop was very successful, highlighting the vital role of clinical instructors in combining classroom learning with practical experience, and working together to produce quality medical professionals.