Approximately half the tutors are practicing physical therapists from the community. A set of carefully designed patient cases is used to provide students exposure to a number of common clinical conditions and physical therapy interventions. Each case is designed to meet particular learning objectives for the study unit. These objectives address issues in basic and clinical sciences, as well as concepts in psychosocial and professional aspects of clinical practice. A critical analysis of contemporary literature and topics of scientific inquiry and clinical research are also discussed.
Groups work through each case using prior knowledge and identifying areas for further study.
Tutors facilitate each group to assist students in identifying appropriate objectives and learning at the appropriate depth of study. The tutorial groups meet for two hours, twice a week. Outside of tutorial sessions, students independently research the case material to address the learning issued generated by the group. The opportunity to discuss and debate concepts in small groups results in a greater depth of understanding of course material, and provides a mechanism for the development of skills in group dynamics and communication. In addition to the tutorial sessions, weekly resource sessions led by physical therapists, physicians, and other health professionals serve to introduce the students to the variety of resources and ideas that they will need to consider in developing solutions to patient problems.