CHANGING THE PHYSIOTHERAPY EDUCATION: INNOVATIVE PEDAGOGIES, STRUCTURE FOR CURRICULUM, AND THE PATH TOWARDS BETTER FUTURE TREATMENTS

Abstract

Modern physiotherapy education has shifted from traditional teacher-centred instruction to more active, student-centred learning approaches that emphasize practical skills, clinical competence, and holistic development. Earlier, teaching mainly involved lectures where students passively listened to instructors. However, current healthcare demands require physiotherapy students to develop hands-on clinical abilities, critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. To achieve this, several innovative teaching methods are being integrated into physiotherapy education. Competency-based education focuses on ensuring students can effectively manage real patient situations. Flipped classrooms encourage students to learn foundational concepts through videos and recordings before participating in interactive classroom discussions. Self-directed and project-based learning promote responsibility and independent thinking through case studies, research, and practical projects. Personalized and community-based learning recognize individual learning differences and adapt educational strategies accordingly. In addition, planetary health integration encourages students to develop awareness about environmental sustainability and its relationship with healthcare. A hybrid approach combining multiple teaching methods can provide the most effective and comprehensive learning experience for future physiotherapists.