Evidence-Based Practice in PT Education and Reflective Practice

Emma, an associate professor at Trinity College Dublin, says the challenge is less about teaching students to appraise evidence and more about bringing that knowledge into everyday clinical decisions. Research by Emma on knowledge-seeking behavior suggests experienced clinicians rarely seek information that breaks their habits. Emma quotes Paul Stratford: it is not evidence that makes decisions, it is people. Evidence-informed practice combines research, clinical experience and the patient's values and expectations. Continuing professional development should be about how a course changed your practice, not about ticking off attendance. A recorded WCPT focused symposium on critical physiotherapy is recommended. As an example of reflection, Emma's students write an essay after two placements on how they used first-semester knowledge, what worked and what they would do differently. The CEO describes constant reflection while leading a global organization across cultures, using quiet time, walks or swimming laps to process the day. The two also debrief each other after meetings, and the guests describe a trusted peer who gives honest feedback as key to checking your own biases.