title: The perceived importance of anatomy and neuroanatomy in the practice of speech-language pathology.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the application of anatomy and neuroanatomy knowledge to current practice of speech-language pathology (SLP), based on the perceptions of practicing SLPs, and to elicit information on participants' experiences of learning these subjects in their primary SLP degree with a view to inform potential curriculum development. A qualitative approach was taken to the collection of data. Eight practicing SLPs from four settings were interviewed. The critical incident technique, together with further probing, was used to elicit information. Interviews were transcribed and later thematically analyzed. This study found that knowledge of anatomy and neuroanatomy was perceived to be important by SLPs across all settings, to varying degrees, with a greater application in acute hospital settings. Negative experiences in studying this material were reported across all settings regardless of country of study. Participants discussed ways to increase students' motivation to learn this challenging material. Relevance of material demanded by students may be enhanced if active learning methods were used to teach anatomy/neuroanatomy, including case-based learning and with vertical and horizontal integration of material to provide a cohesive, spiral curriculum.
authors.affiliation: Department of Education, Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
authors.forename: Kate
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Martin
authors.forename: Nicola J
authors.initials: NJ
authors.lastname: Bessell
authors.forename: Ingrid
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Scholten
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000715:Anatomy / Q000193:education*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003479:Curriculum; D004517:Education, Professional / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D007858:Learning; D009042:Motivation; D009445:Neuroanatomy / Q000193:education; D010465:Perception; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013066:Speech-Language Pathology / Q000193:education*; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods; D017132:Workplace
keywords: anatomical sciences education; anatomy teaching; curriculum development; medical education; neurosciences education; teaching of neuroscience/neuroanatomy