Conclusion
We began the chapter by considering how adults learn and preparations which can be made for practice placements, before considering the role of the practice mentor in facilitating your learning in the clinical setting. The discussion then focused on tools for learning in the practice setting. We considered learning contracts, practice documents and the concepts of formative and summative assessment. In the practice setting it is necessary for the student and mentor to actively engage in negotiating and agreeing the means by which the practice outcomes and learning contract will be achieved, and how learning will occur across the full duration of the placement, rather than assessment occurring at the end of the student’s allocated time in the clinical area. We then discussed reflection, which serves as a useful tool in translating experience into knowledge. Maintaining a reflective log of practice experience is the first step in beginning to examine practice and provides material which will build your portfolio and provide a personal account of your professional achievement and development during the course. The reflective log will vary in form and content depending on personal preference. Finally, the chapter considered how the practice-theory gap, when seen from a practice perspective, is illusory. In reality, practice placements provide an opportunity to implement and appreciate theory and practice at work.