Practical Exams

Last week we had practical exams in lab. A practical exam is an exam where the students have the "opportunity" (I think the students would probably choose a different set of words to describe it!) of showing off their learned manual skills. Besides the psychomotor skills the students have to demonstrate their ability to think on their feet and make rational decisions. Almost everyone gets pretty nervous for these types of tests but the students did well. In these sets of exams we had the students go through 5 different stations including: Positional strength and Range of Motion/Neurodynamic Testing, Taping, Soft Tissue Mobilization, Exercise, and Joint Mobilization. We had a different proctor at each station and had 5 pairs of students testing simultaneously. It was quite the sight to see with a lot happening at once. This is one of my favorite practical exams as it is the closest thing to really treating a patient in a clinic that we have...it brings in most of the elements and the environment is similar to being in the clinic with all the noise and activity. I don't know if the students have the perspective at this point to appreciate the exam but it is nice to see the students growing and learning and demonstrating this to us.

Research Day

Last Friday our third year students (Class of 2009) had their research day. Each student group gave a presentation highlighting the research they have been doing for the past three years. The presentations followed formats that most professional conferences do. 15 minutes of presentation followed by 5 minutes of questions from the audience. The students did a great job. It was great to see the growth of the students from three years of hard work. I truly believe that many of the students will have the chance of presenting their research on the national stage, some have already been accepted. Congratulations to all of you...very impressive.

This week is Spring Break at Rockhurst. A couple of our students and a faculty member (Jim Dronberger) took advantage of the time off to go on a service trip to Guatemala. This is one of several annual service trips that students (and faculty) at Rockhurst can participate in. Both Jim and one of the students have been on this trip previously. What an opportunity to go and serve those that are less fortunate. No matter what you are doing for your Spring Break, I hope it is enjoyable.