College of Saint Mary Physical Therapy Professors Focus Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in Journal Article

OMAHA, Neb. – Four professors in College of Saint Mary’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program recently published an article in the Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal.

Program Director Kimberly Varnado, PT, DPT, DHSc; Associate Professor Anne Mejia-Downs, PT, MPH, PhD; Assistant Professor Nipaporn Somyoo, PT, DPT; and Assistant Professor Shannon Richardson, PT, DPT, EdD, collaborated on the article, “Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in Physical Therapy Education.” As cohorts continue to include learners from a greater variety of backgrounds and identities, the article states that faculty, of which 80% identify as White, might need training in culturally responsive pedagogy to best serve learners from all backgrounds and identities.

“By recognizing and amplifying learners’ strengths, it fosters a supportive learning environment conducive to success for all students,” the article summarizes in its conclusion.

“Our collaborative article highlights the vital role of diversity and inclusion in preparing future healthcare professionals,” Varnado said. “Working alongside my colleagues, we aimed to create a framework that encourages educators to integrate cultural awareness into their teaching practices. Being published in the Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal reinforces the importance of these discussions in advancing physical therapy education and improving care for diverse patient populations.”

CSM’s DPT program offers hybrid learning with core faculty certified in various clinical specialty areas and online instruction. This allows students to study from the comfort of their own homes while attending onsite intensive hands-on experiences with classmates, faculty and clinical partners throughout the year.