Challenges to Students’ Learning and Wellbeing During Placement Abroad
Author Information
Author(s): Wijbenga Miriam H., van der Goot Wieke E., Ramaekers Stephan P. J., Teunissen Pim W., Duvivier Robbert J., Driessen Erik W.
Primary Institution: European School of Physiotherapy, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
Hypothesis
How do personal and professional challenges affect student learning and wellbeing during a clinical placement abroad?
Conclusion
Language, cultural and educational challenges can be considered an inevitable part of student placement abroad, but local peers and staff can support this transition.
Supporting Evidence
- Students reported that local healthcare teams and peers supported their wellbeing and professional development.
- Active participation in local practices was crucial for overcoming barriers in language and culture.
- Students felt that engagement with peers and family was essential for coping with personal challenges.
Takeaway
Students going abroad for their studies face many challenges, but with help from local friends and staff, they can learn and feel better.
Methodology
Qualitative study using rich pictures and semi-structured interviews to explore challenges faced by students during placements abroad.
Limitations
The study was limited to a single institution and may not capture all daily challenges faced by students.
Participant Demographics
{"gender":{"female":6,"male":7},"age":{"mean":27,"range":"19-40"},"nationality":{"european":9,"non_european":4},"region_of_placement":{"europe":8,"north_america":2,"africa":3},"main_language_at_placement":{"dutch_flemish":4,"english":6,"other":3}}
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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