Using the PLUS Framework to support supervisors to make the most of practice education supervision: Experiences from Singapore

Abstract

Introduction:

Practice education is a crucial component of occupational therapy education, providing students with hands-on experience in real-world settings. Supervisors play a vital role in shaping students’ learning experiences, and the Professional Learning through Useful Support Framework, developed in the United Kingdom, serves as a guide for supervisors. However, its applicability in different cultural contexts remains uncertain. This qualitative study explores the perspectives and experiences of supervisors in Singapore who used the Professional Learning through Useful Support Framework to guide their supervision of students.

Method:

Nine new and five experienced supervisors participated in semi-structured interviews, during a 7-week practice education period. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using template analysis.

Findings:

Three themes were developed: The Professional Learning through Useful Support Framework brought awareness to supervisors’ supervisory techniques and guided their actions; The Professional Learning through Useful Support Framework gave permission to use a range of supervisory strategies; and The Professional Learning through Useful Support Framework could be used as a catalyst for enhancing support for supervisors.

Conclusion:

The Professional Learning through Useful Support Framework positively influenced supervisor communication and encouraged a purposeful approach to student supervision. Challenges emerged in implementing the concept of ‘safe failure’ due to cultural attitudes towards success, necessitating cultural adaptation. The study suggests introducing educational opportunities and ongoing support to use the Framework to enhance supervisor skills.