Exploring alternative practice placement models in occupational therapy and physiotherapy: perspectives and experiences of learners and practice educators: a qualitative systematic review

Within physiotherapy and occupational therapy practice placements, there is a predominance of the one-to-one supervision model which creates limitations for placement capacity expansion. Alternative placement models must be explored to meet training requirements for these professions and ensure the availability of a future workforce. The aim of this review is to explore the experiences and perceptions of practice educators and learners regarding alternative placement models, to inform future planning and the adoption of these opportunities. This qualitative systematic review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. A comprehensive search was conducted across six databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, ERIC, PsycINFO), covering the period from January 2010 to December 2022. Meta-aggregation was used to synthesise the findings from the included studies. A total of 16 articles were included within this review. The learner voice was represented in 14 categories aggregated to five synthesised findings: professional growth and development, personal and psychological adaptation, alliances within collaborative learning, educational and learning process, and managing professional relationships. The practice educator voice was represented in 11 categories aggregated into four synthesised findings: providing the right support; professional identity; peer relationships and levels of satisfaction. This review highlights positive aspects associated with skill development, personal growth, and the formation of professional identity following alternative placement experiences. However, it also reveals concerns including uncertainty and anxiety related to role clarity, expectations, and the structure within these environments. This understanding of the perceptions and experiences of both learners and practice educators can inform the development of targeted support and guidance from universities, addressing these challenges and enhancing overall satisfaction. Further adoption of alternative placement models has the potential to expand practice placement capacity for learners offering a promising environment for healthcare education. These models provide learners with invaluable experiences and skills essential for their future careers.