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Abstract

Purpose: To pilot the inclusion of a visual arts unit grounded in social constructivist theory and framed around Visual Thinking Strategy into an entry-level anatomy course and explore its influence on enhancing empathy in Doctor of Physical Therapy students. Methods: 37 students enrolled in the second semester of an 8-semester program participated in this exploratory study using a mixed methods, pre-test, post-test design. Prior to and after the 3-week unit, students completed the Jefferson Scale of Empathy – Health Care Provider Student version (JSP-HPS). After the unit, students provided written reflections on their learning experiences. The JSP-HPS was assessed via paired t-tests. Reflections were considered using an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA); reflections were read and data points were coded for emergent themes, connections, and constructs. Results: JSP-HPS scores increased from 115.7 to 120.4 (p=.002) indicating enhanced empathy. Pluralistic intellectual humility (PIH) emerged as the primary construct from the reflections. PIH included 4 themes of 1) Ambiguity tolerance, 2) Self-discovery, 3) Empathy, and 4) Collaboration. Conclusions: Art interpretation and creation were effective in enhancing students’ empathy; however, empathy emerged as one aspect of the construct of PIH. Once the 4 themes emerged, we intentionally ordered them as potential building blocks. Enhancing empathy - the way to connect to the emotions and experiences of another person - is going to be challenging without addressing other aspects of PIH including ambiguity tolerance and self-awareness. Educators should consider the use of art interpretation and creation as a way to strengthen these critical characteristics.

Author Bio(s)

N. Beth Collier, PT, DPT, EdD is the Director of Postprofessional Education and Clinical Associate Professor of Physical Therapy in the College of Health Professions at Mercer University in Atlanta, GA. She is a licensed Physical Therapist in the state of Georgia.

Leslie F. Taylor, PT, PhD, MS is a Professor of Physical Therapy in the College of Health Professions at Mercer University in Atlanta, GA. She is a licensed Physical Therapist in the state of Georgia.

DOI

10.46743/1540-580X/2024.2385

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