Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Commons^™

Feasibility Of An Onboarding Program To Facilitate The Transition From Practitioner To Educator, Jennifer R. Washko, Nancy E. Krusen

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

The study examined the feasibility of a faculty onboarding program to support the transition from practitioner to educator. Researchers applied Orsmond’s feasibility objectives (2015). We applied the theoretical model of Occupational Adaptation to analyze program data using Relative Mastery Scale (RMS) scores and satisfaction surveys (n=11). Evaluation suggested program processes were feasible, with outcomes indicating statistically significant change (p < .05) in participants’ perceived effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction. Evaluating feasibility supports the implementation of onboarding programs. We recommend additional study to consider the usefulness of onboarding for health or social service professionals transitioning to faculty roles.

Emotional Intelligence In Physician Assistant Education: Associations With Success, Burnout And Engagement, Mickey Lebowitz, William H. Holmes

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Abstract

Background Burnout is prevalent among health care professionals and increasingly recognized among health professions students. Emotional intelligence (EQ) has been associated with reduced burnout among clinicians and learners, but data specific to physician assistant (PA) students remain limited. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of two overlapping cohorts of PA students from the entering classes of 2021-2023. Emotional intelligence was assessed using the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Inventory (SEI®). Burnout was assessed at the end of the first year using the Maslach Burnout Inventory–General Survey for Students and at the end of the second year using the Maslach Burnout …

Patient Perceptions Of Empathy In Medical Student Encounters: Comparing Electronic And Handwritten Notetaking Methods, Harish Karthikeyan, Asad H. Siddiqui, Stacey Algren, Angellar Manguvo

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Objectives: Patient interviews are central to clinical practice, serving as both an information-gathering tool and a foundation for rapport and empathy. With the increased use of electronic documentation during clinic visits, concerns have been raised about technology detracting from the patient-clinician connection. This study examined whether medical students’ notetaking modality (electronic vs handwritten) influenced patient perceptions of empathy during clinical encounters.

Study Design: This study employed a causal-comparative approach, as student groups occurred naturally, combined with a survey design to collect data from patients.

Methods: A total of 135 student–patient encounters were analyzed at the University of Missouri–Kansas City School …

Current Status Of Msk Diagnostic Ultrasound Education In Doctorate Of Physical Therapy Programs In The United States: A Survey, Lesley Parrish Dr., Heather E. Mount, Casey Charlebois

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK-US) is a dynamic, cost-effective imaging modality increasingly integrated into Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curricula. Despite growing interest, variability exists in the integration and implementation of MSK-US in entry-level DPT programs. This study aimed to assess the current status of MSK-US education in accredited DPT programs across the United States. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to all 294 accredited DPT programs in the U.S. via email. The survey consisted of 32 questions that addressed curriculum content, instructional methods, faculty qualifications, and barriers to implementation. Participation was voluntary, and 44 programs responded. No experimental interventions were applied. The …

Exploring The Role Of Cine-Virtual Reality In Empathy And Awareness Of Social Determinants Of Health Among Occupational Therapy Students, Leah M. Stade, Madison Mckeever, Emma Gardner, Jana L. Wardian Phd

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Understanding social determinants of health (SDOH) is crucial for Occupational Therapy students to develop empathy and deliver optimal healthcare. This study explores using web-based 360° cinematic virtual reality (cine-VR) simulations in Level I fieldwork to address SDOH education and occupational engagement before community-based exposure.

This mixed methods study involved surveys and thematic analysis of written reflections from fifty students in a distance-based program at a Midwest university. Students viewed 12 web-based immersive cine-VR modules about a client experiencing multiple SDOH impacts. Surveys were conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and 6-weeks post-intervention, measuring empathy using the Jefferson Empathy Scale and attitudes toward …

Implementing Holographic Instruction In Multi-Campus Dpt Education, Stacie Christensen, Brad Dexter, Michael Hollins, Elisabeth Barrett

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Providing engaging and equitable learning experiences across geographically separated campuses remains an ongoing challenge in health professions education. This educational innovation describes the implementation of holographic (“holobox”) instruction across pre-recorded and live delivery formats within a multi-campus Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum, with preliminary evaluation of learner engagement and feasibility.   Through collaboration with UNMC's Interprofessional Experiential Center for Enduring Learning (iEXCEL), holobox-supported instruction was integrated into learning activities for 63 second-year DPT learners across two campuses. A pre-recorded holographic lecture addressed outcome measure selection, psychometric properties, and database use, delivered simultaneously with faculty facilitators in each location. A separate …

Bridging The Language Gap: A Simulated Experience To Teach Communication Using Virtual Interpreters - Encore Presentation, Jessica Downes, Jessica Witt, Kristen Cook

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Introduction: Patients with Non-English Language Preference (NELP) are at risk for communication barriers and health disparities. Studies have shown that clinicians who receive training on language barriers and interpreter use are more likely to utilize professional interpretation services.   Research question or hypothesis: Providing pharmacy students with an opportunity to practice working with an interpreter in a simulation will improve their confidence in this skill.   Study design: The objective of the study is to create an innovative simulation lab and describe its impact in the didactic curriculum for pharmacy students to practice communicating with an interpreter. Students participated in a survey …

No Escape Without Evidence: Is A Digital Escape Room An Effective Strategy To Teach The Use Of Clinical Practice Guidelines (Cpgs)?, Chelsea Huppert

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Background: Game-based learning, such as escape rooms, have been shown to improve education experiences and student engagement. Digital escape rooms, specifically using Google Forms, have been shown to be an effective tool in teaching pharmacy-related topics. Reading and applying clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are critical skills all student pharmacists must build, and an activity such as a digital escape room could be useful to implement in the pharmacy curricula. The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of a digital escape room via Google Forms is an effective teaching strategy for pharmacy students on reading and applying …

Enhancing Course Development With Generative Ai: Practical Tools For Educators, Nishank Varshney, Casey Solsrud

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

The rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools presents new opportunities for higher education, particularly in designing courses that are rigorous, engaging, and adaptable. This poster demonstrates how generative AI tools can improve teaching and learning through a case study of developing an online course: Fundamentals of Program Evaluation. In this poster, we illustrate how generative AI can be utilized to support brainstorming, content generation, visual design, assessments, and inclusive adaptations. We also discuss risks, ethical considerations, and practical strategies for thoughtful integration. The case offers a replicable model for educators seeking to incorporate AI meaningfully into curriculum development.

Voices Of Learning: Exploring The Impact Of Human And Artificial Intelligence Voice In Health Professions Education, Megan Frazee, Olivia Sattlefield, Elizabeth Lyden, Peggy Moore, Betsy J. Becker

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Introduction While early research indicated students preferred human narration over artificial intelligence (AI) voices, more recent studies have yielded mixed results, with some finding no significant difference in learner preferences for module narration. The purpose of this study was to determine whether professional level health science students exhibit a significant preference between human and AI generated narration in educational e-modules.   Methods Our study used a noninferiority design to assess whether AI voices are comparably effective to human voice. Study participants completed an e-module narrated by a human or AI voice then completed a 21-item survey of perception and cognitive load. …

The Value Of Establishing Connections Between Clinical And Research Settings For The Next Generation Of Neuropsychologists And Neuropsychology Consumers, Pamela May-Weeks

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Objective: The objective of this discussion is to highlight the value of networks and connections across institutions for students, early researchers, and clinicians to support their careers in neuropsychology and the neurosciences. Participants and Methods: Since 2020, two independent institutions, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC; academic medical center) and the Institute for Human Neuroscience (IHN) at Boys Town National Research Hospital (research facility), in Nebraska have partnered to support UNMC graduate students' (pursuing PhD and MD/PhD in various disciplines) master's and doctoral level work. More specifically, a clinical neuropsychologist from UNMC collaborated with researchers at IHN to support student-led …

Exploring The Role Of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) In Immersive Virtual Reality (Ivr) Simulation In Nursing Students, Krystal Davis, Sue A. Schuelke

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Simulation has been shown to be an effective learning modality that can be used to assess competency and clinical judgment. Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) has revolutionized simulation across various fields. By creating highly realistic and interactive environments, IVR allows users to experience scenarios that would be difficult, dangerous, or impossible to replicate in real life. This is a tremendous advantage to preparing our student nurses for today’s challenging workforce. There are several different types of IVR including faculty moderated and independent IVR with drop down menus with both having limitations. The purpose of this pilot study is to compare cost …

Unlocking Knowledge: Designing An Infectious Diseases-Themed Escape Room For Medical Student And Resident Education, Mackenzie R. Keintz, Catherine Cichon, Evangeline Green, Jasmine R. Marcelin, Benjamin K. Arbeiter

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Background Serious games like escape rooms (ER) offer immersive, interactive, and effective teaching through cooperative problem-solving and goal-oriented challenges. ER have primarily been described in context of medical conferences, their integration into routine medical education serves as a novel strategy to foster early interest in infectious diseases (ID) and enhance long-term retention of medical knowledge. Methods We designed an ID–themed ER for trainees on the ID service, guided by Kern’s six-step approach to curriculum development. General needs assessment was obtained via discussion with key stakeholders and literature review. A targeted needs assessment identified high yield board review exam topics and …

Stress In Medical Laboratory Science (Mls) Students: Sources, Patterns, And Implications, Marnie Imhoff

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Students in accelerated, year-long Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) programs experience different stressors that can affect their well-being and ability to persist in the program. This study aimed to identify the main sources of stress among MLS students and to examine how stress levels vary by demographic factors. MLS students in a university program completed a stress survey each semester from May 2022 to May 2024. The survey asked about demographics and included questions about stress in academic, professional, and personal areas. The results showed that the main stressors were lack of free time, the program's pace, and worries about falling …

National Durc Capacity Building Program: A Novel Ipe Model For Responsible Life Science Research Education, Wael Elrayes, Ali Asy, Maha Farid

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Background: Educating scientists on Dual-Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Responsible Use of Life Science Research (RULSR) requires innovative approaches that overcome geographic and expertise barriers while maintaining engagement and educational rigor. This project utilized a novel IPE approach engaging scientists and researchers across multiple health professions disciplines within a One Health framework. We developed and implemented the world's first national-level DURC capacity-building program using a hybrid educational model. Methods: The program employed a two-phase hybrid design combining virtual and in-person modalities. Phase I delivered 13 virtual sessions over three months by international faculty from four countries, engaging 140 scientists …

A Weeklong Academic Preparedness Program Boosts Student Confidence, Community, And Readiness For Medical School, Grace Beauchamp, Samantha Simet, Sias Scherger, Kathy Schall, Yamna Channa, Geoffrey Talmon, Kirstie Bash, Aleisha Nabower

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Medical schools are faced with the challenge of helping students from diverse backgrounds succeed in an intensive education environment. To ease the transition, promote evidence-based study strategies, and emphasize student well-being, a voluntary weeklong Academic Preparedness Program (APP) was implemented and offered to all incoming first year medical students. This project evaluated program acceptability and effectiveness as well as its impact on block scores. Program evaluation included electronic surveys combining both quantitative and qualitative questions immediately following the APP (Survey 1) and again after completion of the first block of medical school (Survey 2). Exam and block scores were compared …

Outcomes Of A Learning Needs Assessment Survey In The Development Of The Extension For Community Health Outcomes Model For Hiv Training In Midwestern Non-Metropolitan Areas, Duncan Works, Daniel Cramer, Elizabeth Lyden, Yue Zhan, Emmanuel Nazaire Essam Nkodo, Renae Furl, Jennifer O'Neill, Maureen Kubat, Heather Saarela, Nada A. Fadul, Jennifer Davis

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Background: In 2020, Nebraska’s HIV prevalence was 146 per 100,000 individuals, with 107 new diagnoses in 2021. Of the 2,497 people living with HIV (PWH) statewide, 23% resided in rural areas. Rural diagnoses nearly doubled in 2021, accounting for 35% of new cases. At presentation, rural PWH had significantly lower mean CD4 counts compared to their urban counterparts (378 vs. 953 cells/mm³), suggesting delays in diagnosis and care. In response, the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) Specialty Care Clinic implemented the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) model to enhance rural provider support through virtual lectures and case-based learning. …

Food For Health: Nourishing Transitions, Kamryn Pfenning, Grace Beauchamp, Shauntel Nutile, Morgan Brummels, Melanie Menning

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

In 2023, 13.5% of U.S. households and 12.9% of Nebraska households experienced food insecurity. The negative effect of food insecurity on the health of patients is well known and includes decreased intake of nutritious foods, increased intake of carbohydrate‑dense foods, and having to choose between paying for food versus other health needs. Food insecurity has also been associated with multiple chronic conditions (asthma, bronchitis, COPD, chronic pain, diabetes, kidney disease, sleep disorders) and lower overall health status. While food insecurity is a major problem faced by many in our community and has been highly associated with poor health outcomes. Despite …

Empowering The Karen Community: Using Education To Improve Cervical Cancer Health Literacy, Grace Berentson, Michaela Bartels, Monica Angeletti, Jennifer Liu

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death among Karen women, a predominant ethnic group in Myanmar. One of the largest and fastest growing Karen populations in the United States is located in Omaha, Nebraska. This two-part project had the following objectives: 1) evaluate cervical cancer health literacy among Karen women in Omaha and 2) address knowledge gaps with educational intervention. A survey was given to Karen women of the Karen Student Association at the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) and members of the Karen Christian Revival Church in Omaha, NE. The survey evaluated participants’ health knowledge pertaining …

National Durc Capacity Building Program: A Novel Ipe Model For Responsible Life Science Research Education, Wael Elrayes, Ali Asy, Maha Farid

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Implementing Holographic Instruction In Multi-Campus Dpt Education, Stacie M.L. Christensen, Brad Dexter, Michael Hollins, Elisabeth Barrett

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

Outstanding Project: Second Place Winner

Bridging The Language Gap: A Simulated Experience To Teach Communication Using Virtual Interpreters - Encore Presentation, Jessica Downes, Jessica Witt, Kristen Cook

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

Food For Health: Nourishing Transitions, Kamryn Pfenning, Grace Beauchamp, Shauntel Nutile, Morgan Brummels, Melanie Menning

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

A Weeklong Academic Preparedness Program Boosts Student Confidence, Community, And Readiness For Medical School, Grace Beauchamp, Samantha Simet, Sias Scherger, Kathy Schall, Yamna Channa, G. Talmon, Kirstie Bash, Aleisha Nabower

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Enhancing Course Development With Generative Ai: Practical Tools For Educators, Nishank Varshney, Casey Solsrud

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Outstanding Project: Third Place Winner

Empowering The Karen Community: Using Education To Improve Cervical Cancer Health Literacy, Grace E. Berentson, Michaela Bartels, Monica Angeletti, Jennifer Liu

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Exploring The Role Of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) In Immersive Virtual Reality (Ivr) Simulation In Nursing Students, Krystal Davis, Sue A. Schuelke

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska

No Escape Without Evidence: Is A Digital Escape Room An Effective Strategy To Teach The Use Of Clinical Practice Guidelines (Cpgs)?, Chelsea A. Ludwig

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

Outcomes Of A Learning Needs Assessment Survey In The Development Of The Extension For Community Health Outcomes Model For Hiv Training In Midwestern Non-Metropolitan Areas, Duncan Works, Daniel Cramer, Elizabeth Lyden, Yue Zhan, Emmanuel Nazaire Essam Nkodo, Renae Furl, Jennifer O'Neill, Maureen Kubat, Heather Saarela, Nada Fadul, Jennifer M. Davis

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Stress In Medical Laboratory Science (Mls) Students: Sources, Patterns, And Implications, Marnie Imhoff

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

Outstanding Project: First Place Winner