Student Reflections in Simulated Speech and Language Therapy Placements Using Telehealth and In‐Person Formats: A Qualitative Study

What is already known on this subject Simulated placements are being used as alternatives to traditional placements in health professions degrees including speech and language therapy (SLT). Comparable learning outcomes have been shown for health professions students either for in-person or online telehealth formats, but no studies have explored experiences in both formats. What this study adds to existing knowledge By exploring student reflections on their learning, this paper suggests that what is salient for SLT students on their first day of a simulated placement is in the areas of (1) communication, (2) emotions, (3) working collaboratively, (4) learning from and with others and (5) therapeutic approaches. The paper suggests that students' reflections on their learning experiences are similar whether the simulation is in an in-person or telehealth format. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this study? This paper guides universities in designing learning experiences for SLT students to develop key competencies for practice within health services, whether they use in-person or online telehealth contexts to provide effective care.