Jill Wickham
My research: Pedagogic action research exploring the
transitions of physiotherapy students from university to placement
settings
Programme: PhD Education
Study Mode: Part-time
I am currently Senior Lecturer in
Physiotherapy and Continuing Professional Development Co-ordinator
in the Faculty of Health and Life Science. During my time at York
St John University I have successfully engaged with a variety of
projects and innovations; I have reflected on each role and
developed transferable skills to enhance total delivery. External
partnerships have included a 2 year half time with the Open
University writing a Foundation Degree for Assistant Practitioners
and a long term contract with a National Publisher to provide
weekly continuing development material. In 2010 I worked
collaboratively with partner organisations to develop a module to
enhance 14-19 Diploma learner progression opportunities transition
into University. I am interested in the exploration of the
transitional experiences of Physiotherapy Students and how I can
contribute to the enhancement of their total student journey by
encouraging students to treat the programme as a holistic rather
than a segregated journey.
Why did you choose this programme at
this University?
As a physiotherapist working in a University I
wish to improve my skills as an educator; it was important to me to
undertake study at PhD level in the area of my current work
setting, I wish to improve my own everyday practice and thus the
opportunity to engage in Action Research was a natural choice.
Choice of supervisor was also a key deciding factor for me; I have
the honour of being supervised by two highly prestigious
Professors, Jean Mc Niff and Julian Stern.
How long have you been studying at
YSJ?
My studies commenced in October 2010.
How did you find combining your ‘work
& home’ life with your studies?
If I was to engage with a PhD it was
imperative to me that I would find it useful for my career, for my
professional development and also that I would enjoy the study.
Every person with whom I spoke told me that the latter would be
impossible. Undeterred I embarked upon this journey and although it
is not an easy ride (I did not ever expect that it would be) I am
enjoying the experience and have already found so many extra
unexpected advantages. My main concern is that I fail at any point
and to reduce my focus on this aspect I set myself outputs in the
form of conference attendances, improvement in my work and writing;
to date I have achieved all that I have set myself within the time
frame (and more). The graduate centre is a hub of activity; I have
been overwhelmed by the positivity in the centre and the
willingness of the other students to accept me as an older woman
and a part timer, the other students act as critical friends and as
a support of morale and friendship. As a mother of two adults and
one teenager, the adults are proud that I am studying again. I
study at home in the evenings and at weekends and find that sitting
quietly with my teenage son whilst he studies the two of us work
harder and achieve a comfortable companionship. Perhaps the only
negative factor is that I constantly feel guilty that I am not
doing enough of study, work or life but so far I am still
swimming.
What did you find most helpful about
the programme, resources, staff, university?
My supervisors and other staff in the Faculty
have been supportive and helpful at all times offering me critical
encouragement and guidance as I have needed it. The administrative
team are amazing ensuring that all administrative details are
sorted out smoothly and efficiently.
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