Personal Perspective on Physical Therapy Education at Bellarmine University:

The profession of physical therapy has always been considered both an art and a science.  This ideal was reflected in a previous motto from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): "Physical therapy, the science of healing, the art of caring."  Physical therapy, however, without science, can never be anything more than an art.  The physical therapy faculty of Bellarmine University make every attempt to keep students well grounded in the basic sciences, and want them to support what they do with the best available evidence (as there may be at times, no absolute evidence).  However, we also help them understand and appreciate individual differences, listen to their clients and patients, and value the importance of caring and the human touch or “laying on of hands”.  The merging of this "art and science" is an excellent example of integrating knowledge which is an integral part of the educational philosophy of the Bellarmine Physical Therapy Program.  This is why I believe a physical therapy educational program thrives in an institution where students' undergraduate preparation is grounded in the liberal arts core.  A liberal arts education provides the opportunity for students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills and appreciate diversity.  While the profession of physical therapy has many technical and procedural components, it is also a service profession which must recognize the humanistic elements.  We believe graduate education is enhanced by a strong liberal arts core that prepares students for life and work in a constantly changing society, and one that helps them to consider and reflect on the impact their actions can have on individuals, on communities, and perhaps even on a global scale.  We strive to provide learning experiences for students through community service requirements that include preparation and opportunities for reflection.  Since I've been a member of the Bellarmine University faculty, I have recognized that this reflection component may be one of the most critical aspects of learning.  It is equally important that students understand the connection between the service and their academic course work.  I believe learning takes place both inside and outside of the classroom and these combined experiences help to increase awareness of social, community and civic responsibilities.  This places a great deal of responsibility on both faculty and students, and requires continual re-assessment and a strong dedication to life-long learning.