A listening skill educational intervention for pediatric rehabilitation clinicians: A mixed-methods pilot study

Abstract

Objective: To prepare for an RCT by examining the effects of an educational intervention on the listening skills of pediatric rehabilitation clinicians, piloting study procedures, and investigating participants’ learning experiences. Methods: Six experienced clinicians received the intervention, consisting of video simulations and solution-focused coaching regarding personal listening goals. Self- and observer-rated measures of listening skill were completed and qualitative information was gathered in interviews and a member checking session. Results: Significant change on self-reported listening skills was found from pre- to post-test and/or follow-up. The pilot provided useful information to improve the study protocol, including the addition of an initial orientation to listening skills. Participants found the intervention to be a highly valuable and intense learning experience, and reported immediate changes to their clinical and interprofessional practice. Conclusion: The educational intervention has the potential to be an effective means to enhance the listening skills of practicing pediatric rehabilitation clinicians.

• Coaching
• communication skills
• intervention
• pediatric rehabilitation
• listening
• professional development
• simulation

Acknowledgments

We thank Thames Valley Children’s Centre, Western University, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, and the University of Toronto’s Standardized Patient Program for their kind support. We also thank the standardized patients for their contributions to the project, Greg Vanden Kroonenberg for taping and editing the videos, and Darlene Hubley and Diane Savage for their assistance. Gillian King holds the Canada Research Chair in Optimal Care for Children with Disabilities.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no declarations of interest. This study was supported by a SIM-one Simulation Research and Innovation Grant and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.

Appendix 1: Effective Listening and Interactive Communication Scale Assessment Rubric (ELICS-AR)