Description
Description
For the self-regulated learner, the forethought phase (from self-regulated learning theory studied in Term 1) is an important step in making each learning experience valuable. Just like all assessment is learning, all clinical practice is also learning, especially if you use forethought to prepare for your work in the clinic, and self-reflect afterward.
Part of forethought for practice is formulating a philosophy of practice. Please don’t fall asleep. Philosophy, literally “love of wisdom”, gets a bad rap in modernity. You already have a philosophy of life, whether or not you’ve written it down. Call to mind a mentor or hero; how does their way of living wisely motivate you? How you understand yourself, your place in the world, what matters, and what is your responsibility to yourself and to others; these are the ideas and feelings that make up your philosophy of life.
Making explicit your philosophy of life helps you live life well, intentionally. This journal assignment is much narrower in focus than a philosophy of life. As part of the forethought phase for practice, specifically goal-setting, you are going to craft a philosophy of practice.
Instructions
Consider your prior study on the traditions and perspectives in medicine and healing, both this term and prior terms. Consider also the mission and vision statements for the Central Coast program and the University, and role of CHCs and the National Association of CHCs in this program and healthcare delivery broadly. And, consider lessons you’ve learned personally and vicariously through interacting with healthcare systems as patient, caregiver, provider, or administratively.
Then, craft a personal philosophy of practice as a PA. Include the following:
What you believe about health and illness
What you believe about the role of the PA
What you believe about the role of the patient
What you believe about the role of the community/society
Why you commit to practice as a PA
Your personal statement of philosophy of practice could be of your own design and thinking, or could borrow from some tradition(s), or could be you adopting a tradition entirely. If while addressing each of these bulleted prompts above you subscribe or commit yourself to one specific tradition or perspective, please say so and briefly explain why.
Your statement of personal philosophy of practice should meet the following requirements:
Write 1-2 sentences for each of the bullets above. You may write more if doing so helps you convey your ideas clearly.
Include two different assigned learning materials from Professional Practice. Cite them in your statement of personal philosophy and include them in a reference list at the end of the journal entry. (Refer to PP 1 for AMA citation resources)
