Integrating Self-Regulated Learning and Interprofessional Collaboration: A Qualitative Study to Inform Healthcare Professional Education

Document Type : Qualitative Research

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Abstract
Background: Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) is important to coordinated healthcare, and is commonly discussed in relation to patient safety. Healthcare professionals may also draw on self-regulatory processes to prepare for tasks, coordinate work, reflect on team activity, and pursue continuing development. This study explored healthcare professionals’ perceptions and reported practices of IPC through an SRL–IPC matrix framework. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted with ten healthcare professionals at Ulin Regional General Hospital, Banjarmasin, Indonesia, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, with NVivo supporting data organization and coding. The analysis was guided by four SRL dimensions and five IPC competency domains. Results: The analysis identified 46 significant statements, organized into 30 categories, 14 subthemes, and five overarching themes. The themes concerned the relationship between SRL and IPC; clinical task strategies and professional role clarification; clinical time management and team function synergy; management of disagreements and collaborative leadership; and learning and continuing professional development. Communication appeared in accounts across several SRL–IPC intersections. Participants also discussed feedback, reflection, shared learning, and digital communication in professional practice. Conclusion: These context-specific findings offer preliminary insights into how healthcare professionals describe self-regulation in interprofessional collaboration. The SRL–IPC matrix may be explored further as an analytical aid for educational design and competency assessment. Additional research is needed before drawing conclusions about its validity or effects on educational outcomes or patient safety.

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