031615 | Learning through Teaching

Last Monday marked the start of PT 138. As a course starter, we had three different activities scheduled in one day – yoga, video critiquing and role-playing. Honestly, it was something I looked forward to because we will not just sit and listen to a lecture but instead, we will engage in different activities.

Our section had yoga first. It was very interesting for me because it was something I really wanted to try. What I liked about it (other than yoga itself) was that Ma’am Mia, our instructor, was very clear in giving out instructions. She explained and demonstrated the positions first then let us do them along with verbal cues from her, which she slowly weaned off as we progressed. It was also nice that she did not only get feedback from us but also gave feedback to herself which means that she was constantly monitoring and reflecting on her performance even as a teacher. This is something I consider both admirable and important.

For the latter half of the day, we did the usual PT-patient role-playing but this time, the “patients” were given actual cases. It was a good opportunity because we were reminded of how different handling and teaching will be in the clinics. The experience was completely different from what I had in the video I critiqued, and I realized I only did well in that because it was “scripted” and far from what will actually happen had I taught a real patient.

With these, I have come to terms that in the future, I will make sure to consider the client’s individuality not only in the intervention I will plan but also in the way I will teach. Because what good will an intervention be if you cannot relay it well to the client?