Promoting Coherence in Athletic Training Education Programs

Objective: To present athletic training educators with guidelines for developing coherent athletic training education programs.

Background: Coherent athletic training education programs are marked by a clear relationship between program goals and learning activities. These learning activities follow a logical progression that facilitates knowledge and skill development and enhances professional preparation. Coherent programs also work to socialize athletic training students in purposeful and positive ways. We have identified fourteen indicators of coherence in teacher education programs that are applicable to athletic training education. Both teacher certification and athletic training programs are similar in that they serve as professional preparation for their respective fields and have practical application (i.e., clinical education or student teaching practicum) components.

Description: Coherence begins with a clearly defined mission statement. The academic faculty and clinical staff/instructors strive to achieve the mission and goals of the athletic training education program. Next, the coursework must follow a logical progression to allow students to make connections between subject matter. Clinical learning experiences should compliment academic learning experiences. In addition, clinical education experiences should follow students' skill levels and needs. Finally, the students themselves are encouraged to interact with their fellow students and form learning communities.

Clinical Advantages: Coherent education programs have the most potential to produce athletic trainers who are competent and well socialized into professional practice. We believe graduates of such programs are properly prepared to be certified athletic trainers.