Exploring the Kawa Model: Understanding Physical Therapy Students' Experiences During COVID-19

Join Professor Sue Klapper from the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at UTM as she delves into her groundbreaking research presented in Boston during APTA in February. This study uses the Kawa Model to metaphorically depict the lived experiences of physical therapy students during the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing the unique challenges faced by the cohorts of 2020, 2021, and 2022, Professor Klapper reveals how the pandemic disrupted their learning processes and highlights the resilience and adaptability demonstrated by these future healthcare professionals.
Discover how the Kawa Model, with its river metaphor, provides a visual representation of students' educational journeys, identifying barriers (boulders) and personal assets (driftwood) that influenced their learning flow. This insightful research sheds light on the importance of understanding and supporting students' experiences, especially during unprecedented times.