Communicating effectively as a clinical instructor

As clinical instructors we should be aware of the educational background and the clinical strengths of the athletic training students who will follow us professionally. The educational process seems to be a never-ending task while improvements call for the need to change. Interpersonal communication might become a focus as we strive to improve standards for clinical instructors. For some CIs, interpersonal communication might come naturally, whereas others will need to develop this skill. The question remains: How can a CI educate a student in effective interpersonal communication? The answer might be in the classroom through formal education or a clinical instructional setting where the CI can provide feedback to help students hone their clinical skills and behaviors. The immediate application for the CI is to give feedback to students when appropriate. We as clinical instructors should strive to provide students with an optimal learning environment while using effective interpersonal communication skills.