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Evidence-Based Teaching in Physiotherapy: An Academic Review

Ranjeet Singha

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Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)

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Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Journal 19(1):p 73-77, Jan - March 2026. | DOI: 10.21088/potj.0974.5777.19126.9

How Cite This Article:

Ranjeet Singha. Evidence-Based Teaching in Physiotherapy: An Academic Review. Therapy Jr. 2026; 19(1): 70-74.

Timeline

Received : January 16, 2026         Accepted : February 22, 2026          Published : March 30, 2026

Abstract

Physiotherapy education is increasingly moving away from traditional lecturedominated approaches toward teaching models that prioritise active learning, clinical reasoning, and the effective use of educational technology. This shift reflects growing recognition that contemporary physiotherapy practice requires graduates to integrate theoretical knowledge with complex decision-makingin diverse clinical contexts. Evidence-based teaching (EBT) offers a structured approach to curriculum design by drawing on educational research to support thedevelopment of professional competence, reflective practice, and patient-centredreasoning.This review examines current evidence related to evidence-based teaching inphysiotherapy, with particular attention to curriculum frameworks, instructional strategies, and the evolving role of educators. Educational models that emphasise process-oriented learning, such as structured curriculum planning and explicit demonstration of expert thinking, are discussed alongside commonly used teaching strategies, including flipped classrooms, simulation-based education, collaborative learning, and concept mapping. Collectively, these approaches are associated with improved learner engagement, deeper conceptual understanding, and enhanced preparedness for clinical practice. Although examination outcomes are often comparable to those achieved through traditional methods, evidence suggests that evidence-based teaching supports greater confidence, autonomy, and clinical reasoning ability among students. Persistent challenges including time constraints, limited research literacy, and resource demands continue to influence implementation. Overall, the literature supports evidence-based teaching as a necessary foundation for preparing physiotherapy graduates to meet the demands of modern healthcare practice.


References

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Data Sharing Statement

There are no additional data available. All raw data and code are available upon request.

Funding

This research received no funding.

Author Contributions

All authors contributed significantly to the work and approve its publication.

Ethics Declaration

This article does not involve any human or animal subjects, and therefore does not require ethics approval.

Acknowledgements

We would like to express our gratitude to the patients, their families, and all those who have contributed to this study.

Conflicts of Interest

No conflicts of interest in this work.


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Cite this article

Ranjeet Singha. Evidence-Based Teaching in Physiotherapy: An Academic Review. Therapy Jr. 2026; 19(1): 70-74.


Licence:

Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)

This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator.


Received Accepted Published
January 16, 2026 February 22, 2026 March 30, 2026

DOI: 10.21088/potj.0974.5777.19126.9

Keywords

Evidence-Based TeachingPhysiotherapy EducationClinical ReasoningSimulationBased EducationFlipped Classroom •Active LearningCurriculum Development

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Received January 16, 2026
Accepted February 22, 2026
Published March 30, 2026

licence


Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)

This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator.


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