Exploration of physiotherapists' motivations to embark upon taught master's level study
Author
Glover, Peter
Bulley, Catherine
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Glover, P. & Bulley, C. () Exploration of physiotherapists' motivations to embark upon taught master's level study, , , , ,
Abstract
Background: Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a professional
responsibility for allied health professionals1. Post-qualifying study is one means of
meeting CPD requirements, which may partially explain why the uptake of
physiotherapy-related Masters level study (MLS) is increasing2. However, there is a lack
of literature investigating why physiotherapists undertake MLS. This research attempted
to address this gap in the literature by exploring the motivations of physiotherapist to
embark upon taught physiotherapy-related Masters study.
Method: Following appropriate ethical approval, a purposive sample of 9 volunteers (8
female, 1 male, mean age: 36 7.29) was recruited. A qualitative, interpretative,
phenomenological study was undertaken with the assumption that reality is individual
and all viewpoints are valid. Individual, semi- structured interviews (mean time: 67
minutes) were conducted using an interview schedule. Questions were derived from a
review of motivational literature, developmental interviews, and expert approval.
Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Following member-checking and peer review, Key
Themes were inductively derived from the context and interpretation of the transcripts.
Results: Four Key Themes emerged that described the facilitators to commence MLS in
different environments: social, educational, clinical, and working. These themes provided
an integrated overview of the intrinsic and extrinsic motivators for this group of
physiotherapists to undertake their MLS. Some participants indicated that a settled
domestic life and future plans influenced their timing of MLS commencement. Personal
and professional development was identified as a major motivator for participants, as
were encouragement and inspiration from colleagues with experience of Masters study.
Conclusions: The experiences of this group of physiotherapists suggest that the factors
motivating them to undertake MLS were varied and individualised. Their motivators
could be practical, personal or professional in nature. There are possible implications for
both educational providers and employers to promote the benefits of MLS and to invest
in support structures to facilitate its commencement.