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Introduction

The Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) expert panel advocates for health profession students to learn to work together. 1 This study examined the impact of a single interprofessional experience on three cohorts of health profession students’ readiness, knowledge, and perceptions of working as a team.

Method

Interprofessional student teams were randomly formed (n=594) representing dietetics, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech language pathology. A video-case was presented and students participated in a guided discussion related to roles and team goals. Interprofessional faculty members facilitated discussions and answered questions. A pre-post design was employed using mixed methodologies. Quantitative measures were the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) and the Interprofessional Education Perception Scale (IEPS).

Results

Pre and post data were evaluated using paired sample t-tests (PAWS 17.0). Statistically significant improvements were seen from pre to post testing on the RIPLS (p=.000) and IEPS (p=.000). A semi-structured interview guide generated focus group qualitative data. Analysis of focus group transcripts revealed three themes: knowledge and respect, communication, and teamwork.

Conclusion

The IPE forum had a positive influence on students’ attitudes towards working as a team and enhanced professional identity and perceived competency. Qualitative themes were consistent with the IPEC core competency outcomes.