Learning to Collaborate Interprofessionally: Student Socialization and Collaborative Values in a Community-Based Program

Abstract

Introduction: Interprofessional education is essential for preparing health professionals to collaborate effectively. Community-based interprofessional education (CBIPE) is an applied model where interdisciplinary teams engage in field-based learning within community settings. This study examined how participation in a CBIPE program influenced the students' interprofessional socialization and shared values. Methods: A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was used in this study. Quantitative data were collected online using the 19-item Interprofessional socialization and Valuing Scale, supplemented by three open-ended questions for qualitative responses. A total of 290 students from nine health-related study programs participated following a 30-day CBIPE placement. Statistical analyses included confirmatory model fit testing, and qualitative data were analysed using content analysis in MAXQDA. Results: Of 290 participants, most demonstrated high interprofessional socialization scores, with significant differences observed across study programs (p=0.03) and educational levels (p=0.04), but not by gender (p=0.86). Students reported greater willingness to collaborate with peers from Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing, while others were less preferred by them. Qualitative analysis identified three key themes: effective collaborative practices (coordination, role clarity, solidarity), challenges to collaboration (communication barriers, unclear roles, interpersonal differences), and the needed support (pre-program preparation, improved communication, and strengthened collaborative awareness). Integrated findings demonstrated strong convergence between quantitative patterns and qualitative insights. Conclusion: Participation in the community-based interprofessional placements can significantly enhance interprofessional socialization, particularly on items reflecting teamwork, role clarity, communication, and collaborative action. Enhancing preparatory training, strengthening communication processes, and clarifying role expectations may help improve the consistency and effectiveness of future CBIPE implementation.

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