Role of practical training and practice teachers as factors for professional motivation of physiotherapists

Information for nursing staff, 2025, 57(4), 28-33.

Zh. Gerenova, T. Dimitrov, E. Nikovska

Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Public Health “Prof. Tzecomir Vodenitcharov, MD, DSc“, Medical University – Sofia

Abstract. Motivation is one of the most studied phenomena in psychological science. As a key driving factor and natural source of “energy” in society, it is also viewed through the prism of andragogy as a phenomenon, without which any educational activity for adults would be impossible. Motivation to learn is an essential aspect of the learning process and influences both its effectiveness and quality, as well as individual personal development and professional improvement. The aim of this study is to establish the role of practical training and, in particular, of the practical instructor as a motivational factor for the professional development of future physiotherapists. Materials and Methods: Between June and October 2024, an empirical study was conducted at the Faculty of Public Health “Prof. Tzecomir Vodenitcharov, MD, DSc” at the Medical University – Sofia, involving students from the I, II, III, and IV courses in the specialty of “Physical Therapy,” regular physical therapists working in the educational and practical training facilities, and teachers of educational and clinical practice. A questionnaire with standardized and partially standardized answers was used to study the opinions of the respondents. The results of the survey demonstrate the significant impact of practical training on the professional development of students; the awareness of the need for better communication skills when interacting with patients; the importance of the personality of the teachers and their qualities for the professional motivation of the students. Conclusion: Studying motivation for learning allows us to better explain the characteristics of adults as learners and to more clearly identify their needs related to their training and development.

Key words: training, motivation, physiotherapy

Address for correspondence: Julieta Gerenova, e-mail: j.georgieva@foz.mu-sofia.bg