The Exercise Science Practice Model: Critical Thinking And Reasoning Applications - Evidence From The Field

PURPOSE: The purpose of this project is to analyze critical thinking (CT) and problem solving skills for ES students, evaluate the efficacy of Exercise Science Practice Model (ESPM) developed by the authors, and report student perceptions of CT in the curriculum. METHODS: IRB approval was granted by the university review board. A Qualtrics survey tool was administered to students at the conclusion of the curriculum, both Spring of 2023 and 2024 (n = 30), to assess student perceptions of ESPM integration throughout the curriculum. The Health Science Reasoning Test (HRST) was administered to incoming junior ES students in the fall of 2024 to establish baseline CT skills. RESULTS: Qualtrics survey data indicate the ESPM helps students organize thought processes, advance recall and application, facilitate CT and problem solving, and promote comprehensive exercise prescription. Students indicated primary ESPM components used on internships were assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and outcomes/re-assessment. Specifically, 62% of students reported correcting faulty technique, 80% identified 20 different assessments to identify underlying causes of movement/technique faults, 83% assessed outcomes using both subjective and objective measures. Regarding the curriculum, 92% found the hypothesis generation/hypothesis testing paradigm used in the ESPM useful. The most effective instructional strategies were 1) in lab problem-based skills practice, 2) lab practical exams, 3) in lecture application worksheets, 4) lecture essay/short answer exam questions, and 5) lecture multiple-choice exam questions. Regarding ES terminology, 59% agreed the term “diagnosis” was commonly used on internships. Data analysis of HSRT. CONCLUSIONS: Survey data of two cohorts indicates ESPM is useful and has direct applications during internships. Implementing a practice and client management reasoning model may reduce the schism between ES education and delivery of care, enhancing student growth and performance as well as the ES impact on societal needs.