STUDENT EDUCATION FEATURE
We developed a brief profile of each participant and coded a total of six transcripts in relation to the research questions .
A learning process It was unique and exciting opportunity , being able to ‘ look behind the curtain ’ and see what an actual research project is like . But it was also challenging at times .
As a peer researcher it was up to us to gather data and to ask the right questions , to get a broad set of topics covered . Also , during the analysis process it is important to highlight topics most important and relevant to the students .
Despite this being a remote and research-based placement , my clinical skills have improved . For example , in a remote working environment it is crucial to manage your time effectively to manage your workload . This is also important in every clinical setting .
I created a schedule , marking weekly and daily goals to achieve . That way all projects and targets were met in time . Working from home and on my private device meant that I had to ensure data is kept safe and confidential at all times . This included not having written notes with personal details lying about and password securing documents of data analysis .
Although there were no interventions that could be tailored to a person ’ s need , it was still vital to ensure person-centredness when facilitating the focus groups and analysing the data , as the main goal was to maintain a strong student voice throughout .
Questions asked had to be relevant to the participants ’ lives and their experience and this had to be reflected in the second phase as well .
To adequately analyse the data , my fellow student and I had to work collaboratively and communicate actively to create a series of codes applicable to all transcripts and scenarios stated . In addition , we had to be critical in the process of developing those codes to assess their individual appropriateness and value for the overarching research questions .
It was also important to discuss and reflect on our choices and outcomes . We took part in academic staff meetings and fed back to our supervisor on a regular basis , therefore , we had to ensure professionalism . For example , not being late to meetings , being appropriately dressed and contributing meaningful comments to the conversation .
These are just a few examples . Even though I was missing out on some experiences unique to the clinical environment in hospitals , my core skills were nurtured and additionally I gained valuable insight to what research entails and what steps take place in the process of gathering and analysing data .
This has sparked an interest in research and hopefully I will be able to foster this after transition into clinical practice .
From a student perspective , a research placement is a great alternative for students who cannot attend a clinical placement , as it helps to maintain and further develop core occupational therapy skills in a safe environment .
Johanna Rohde , final year occupational therapy student , Ulster University
OTnews November 2021 41