Developing an understanding of clinical leadership as an occupational therapy student

Background: Policy in the United Kingdom has placed the emphasis on transformational leadership within the National Health Service with all staff, including clinicians, needing to take responsibility to be clinical leaders... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Policy in the United Kingdom has placed the emphasis on transformational leadership within the National Health Service with all staff, including clinicians, needing to take responsibility to be clinical leaders regardless of their role or level of experience. This poster will explore how the undergraduate curriculum at Plymouth University enables occupational therapy students to develop an understanding of clinical leadership ready for this challenge.

Educational Philosophy or theory: A constructivist approach is taken facilitating reflection and deeper learning through discussion and problem solving.

Pedagogy / educational approach(es) used:
Interprofessional education is the major pedagogical approach facilitating students to explore the concept of leadership in multidisciplinary groups.

Evaluation:
Feedback continues to be sought from current and graduating students on module content and extra curricula activity facilitating leadership development.

Application to Education and /or practice:

Jasper and Jumaa (2005) stated ‘without significant and effective investment in education and training for leadership, it will be difficult for the culture of the NHS to change, for individuals to develop the skills, confidence and professional experience to become leaders and for professional boundaries to be scaled’ (p. 251). Equipping students with a solid understanding of the topic will play a key role in the future success and developments of the profession.

References
Jasper M, Jumaa M (2005) Effective healthcare leadership. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing