Physiotherapy February 2002/vol 88/no 2

121Book reviews

Blackwell Science, Oxford2001 (ISBN 0 632 05739 4).187 pages

by David Kember £17.99The development of reflective capabilities in health-care professionals provides the focus for this book, whichfurthers understanding of reflection. Written for educatorsinvolved with undergraduate and postgraduate profess-ional education, the book engages with aspects ofcurriculum design and implementation that encouragereflection. Based on an Action Research project involvingseveral professions it overcomes the specificity and context-dependent nature of previous studies and shares bothpositive and negative experiences of implementing variousstrategies.

The book is divided into four parts. Part I contextualisesthe study with a critical review of a wide range of literature,an account of the research methodology and methodsemployed and insight into the research setting. The decisionto incorporate the methodological account within the text as opposed to confining it to an appendix, as is frequentlythe case, adds depth and contributes to the reflexive styleadopted throughout.

Part II deals with issues of course design and implem-entation of strategies intended to promote reflection, suchas the use of learning contracts, reflective writing and

critical group discussion. Each account focuses on a different professional group including physiotherapists,radiographers, occupational therapists, nurses and clinicaleducators.

Part III represents a synthesis of research findings andexplores their implications for curriculum design andcourse delivery. Part IV re-examines the nature of reflectionin the light of research findings, focusing on the impact ofaffective aspects on personal and professional developmentand triggers for reflection. The book concludes with asummary of generic characteristics of reflective teaching and learning.

The multi-professional nature of the book will mean thatit should have a wide readership. Evidence of differences inthe readiness of certain groups of professionals to engage in reflection highlights possible differences in philosophiesthat might well have been explored. Nevertheless, thethorough description of the implementation of a range ofstrategies has immediate application across a variety ofcourses in healthcare disciplines including physiotherapy.

The book is clearly written in an accessible style. It is wellorganised and logical with a preview of parts and chapters,which is particularly helpful. Tables are successfully used asa précis device and figures illustrate more complex themes.Although the book is primarily applicable to educators inacademic and service settings, it may well benefit students. It is a useful addition to libraries and departmentalbookshelves and is good value for money.

Deanne Lynn Clouder MA BSc MCSP

Reflective Teaching and Learningin the Health Professions

Demos, New York2001, 2nd edn (ISBN 1 888799 28 5). 451 pages

edited by Hiroshi Mitsumoto MD and Theodore L Munsat MD$39.95

As many UK therapists use the terminology ‘motor neuronedisease’ the title of this book, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis(ALS), may not be one that stands out as an obvious choice.

The book has been written as a guide for patients withALS/MND as well as their families and carers. It describesmany aspects of the disease and explains the processes ofmanagement that the patients will undoubtedly encounterthroughout its progression.

This book is a second edition; the first was published in1992. The information has been updated and some newchapters have been included such as those givinginformation on mourning and bereavement. Its 32 chaptersprogress through descriptions of pathology, currentresearch, medical and rehabilitation management, effectson individuals and their carers, and a discussion of terminalillness issues. It also presents a comprehensive resourcesection including books, USA-based centres and internetwebsites.

The book is packed with information that has been wellreferenced. Although it is rather formidable in size, eachchapter covers a separate topic which is generally subdividedand this makes it a more manageable read. Unfortunately, as the chapters are written by different contributors, it can seem slightly repetitive with verbose explanations. Inaddition, the book and its resource index are based solely inthe USA -- an entire chapter is devoted to explaining thefinancial systems of the American insurance companies --which is of limited help to worldwide readers.

The book has some particularly good advice oncommunication between patients, carers and medical staff.It encourages individuals to deal with ‘end of life’ issuesespecially with regard to intubation versus non-intubationbefore medical representatives make decisions for a sufferer.It highlights sound advice that we, as part of the medicalteam, should not feel reticent in broaching the subject ofdeath with these patients in order to discuss the decision-making process to prevent prolonged and unwantedsuffering.

From my point of view this book may be of value tomedical and associated staff who are involved in treatingALS/MND in order to truly understand the complex andmulti-faceted issues that face these patients.

Justine Vallance MCSP

Amyotrophic Lateral SclerosisA guide for patients and families

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