Professional Leadership & Practice I

This is the first in a series of 4 courses designed to educate students about the multiple dimensions of professional practice in contemporary physical therapy. These courses will explore the professional roles of the physical therapist as a clinician, educator, and advocate. This will be the first in a series of courses that will address trans-curricular themes including leadership, service, health promotion, advocacy, teaching & learning, interprofessional collaboration and teamwork, cultural humility, and self-reflection, culminating in the creation of a digital portfolio.  The course series will include broad exposure to a variety of professional and personal development experiences and expect more in-depth engagement in the student’s chosen area of focus.

This first course in the professional leadership and practice series will explore the process of professional identity formation, including exploration of attitudes and biases, personality, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, authentic leadership, health & well-being practices, and inclusive excellence. The course will also explore structural and racial barriers to health and healthcare. Students will broaden their understanding of physical therapy practice, structure, and governance of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), the APTA vision and core values, and legislative action at the national, state, and local levels. Students will be introduced to the core competencies for interprofessional education and collaborative practice. Students will have the opportunity to reflect on personal strengths and goals and develop a personal development and professional leadership plan. An overview of the Digital Professional Portfolio project will be included.