My primary interest in the world of education involves cognitive structure, competency-based education, expertise, and critical thinking - specifically as they relate to teaching gross anatomy to physiotherapy students. Gross anatomy is a foundational course that is integral to all of the health professions' educational programs. I have proposed several Innovations in Anatomy Education to enhance how we teach gross anatomy to physiotherapy students in their entry-level education.
Research:
My current research is focused on how physiotherapy students learn gross anatomy - how they organize their knowledge, and how this compares to that of experts. My doctoral dissertation, entitled "Data Modeling of Cognitive Structure in Physiotherapy Students Learning Gross Anatomy", serves as a cornerstone for this research. My doctoral dissertation was awarded the 2022 Harold L. Hodgkinson Award for Outstanding Dissertation.
My ORCID page can be found here. You can connect with me on Researchgate.
Projects:
Here are a couple of video projects that I created as a part of my doctoral education. The first is a video that I continue to use with my current DPT students to foster the use of cognitive mapping in their self-directed learning strategies. The second is a video proposal for an innovative globally networked curriculum that will someday become reality.
I'll share my latest thoughts, ideas, blog posts, and content with you every two weeks! It's free and it's 100% spam-free. How cool is that? What more can you ask for?
Allan Besselink, PT, DPT, Ph.D., Dip.MDT has a unique voice in the world of sport, education, and health care, one that has been defined by his experiences as physiotherapist, mentor, McKenzie practitioner, innovator, author, educator, coach, patient, and athlete. Read more about Allan, contact him, get updates via email, or connect with him on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.