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. 2024 Nov 15;35(1):437-446.
doi: 10.1007/s40670-024-02215-5. eCollection 2025 Feb.

Strategic Learning Principles Are Related to Academic Scores for Doctor of Physical Therapy Students

B Reynolds  1 , C Minahan  1
Affiliations

Strategic Learning Principles Are Related to Academic Scores for Doctor of Physical Therapy Students

B Reynolds et al. Med Sci Educ. .

Abstract

Introduction: The Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) is a self-assessment of strategic learning principles with scores representing areas for growth. The purpose of this study was to measure LASSI scores at 2 points in time for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in a 2-year hybrid program to see if scores changed after a science of learning course and two quarters of the program. The authors then examined the relationship between LASSI scores and academic scores (DPT program GPA, anatomy, and physiology grades).

Methods: Retrospective descriptive analysis of LASSI scores with comparisons between baseline and after a science of learning course and two quarters of the program using a paired t-test; bivariate correlations examined the relationship of LASSI scores to academic scores.

Results: Data was collected for 259 matriculated DPT students. Three of the 10 LASSI scales had significant change after the science of learning course and two quarters of the program; however, the effect sizes were small (0.2 or less). Anxiety management (t(258) = 2.340, p = .020) scores improved, while both concentrations (t(258) = - 3.229, p = .001) and the use of academic resources (t(258) = - 1.999, p = .047) had lower scores. There were several LASSI scores with significant correlations to academic scores (ρ = .132 to .431).

Discussion/conclusion: LASSI was related to academic scores, although the strength of the relationship was low to negligible. LASSI showed small changes over time. There could be various reasons for scores improving or declining, but the awareness of scores and change in scores can provide a solid foundation for individualized coaching to DPT students as they navigate the rigor of a graduate level professional program.

Supplementary information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40670-024-02215-5.

Keywords: Hybrid learning; LASSI; Physical therapist education; Self-regulation; Strategic learning; Study strategies.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of InterestThe authors are employed by South College where data was gathered and analyzed. The authors have no competing interests to report that are relevant to the content of this article.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
DPT program courses in Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 of an 8-quarter program
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Descriptions of the 10 LASSI scales
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Percentile scores for each LASSI component at two points in time (pre, post). *Statistically significant differences in LASSI score, p < .05
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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