Dynamic Adaptations: Assessing the Integration of Standardized Patients in Physical Therapist Assistant Education

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of standardized patients in the physical therapist assistant (PTA) curriculum as compared to paper-based case studies with regard to reaching higher order thinking in preparation for the clinical environment. Methods: Thirty-five participants were divided into 2 groups to participate in a discussion of a paper case scenario or engage with a standardized patient. Following the interaction, the students completed a survey related to their perceptions of the interventions along with open-ended questions intended to gain insight into application of clinical reasoning skills used during their respective intervention. Results: The majority of the students reported they preferred hands on learning versus discussion/lecture. Prominent themes in the open-ended questions of the standardized patient group were reflection in action, adaptability, and navigation of ambiguity. Discussion: Implementation of teaching/learning strategies, such as standardized patients, that require students to apply higher order thinking skills such as clinical reasoning and adaptability are critical in preparing students for entrance into healthcare.