THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITATIVE STUDIES IN PHYSIOTHERAPY: REFLECTIONS ON AN INTERNATIONAL EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Introduction: The complexity of health phenomena and the individuality of patients demand approaches that capture the richness of human experiences, perceptions and social contexts. It is in this scenario that qualitative studies stand out, providing valuable insights that complement quantitative data and offering a holistic view of health care. Objective: To reflect on the experiences lived during the discipline "Scientific Research Priorities in Physical Therapy Assessment and Management", highlighting the importance of qualitative studies in the clinical and research spheres in physical therapy, and to report how the guidance of an international professor contributed to a deeper and more diversified understanding of these methodologies. Methodology: This is an experience report of the discipline taught in the second semester of 2024, in the Graduate Course in Physical Therapy at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, conducted by a guest professor from Spain. Results: In the present study, the stages of the qualitative methodology discipline were described and analyzed, focusing on perspectives, learnings and practical implications in professional training. The results obtained show the significance of the contributions of this experience to academic and professional growth, highlighting the importance of qualitative studies in the clinical and research spheres in physiotherapy. However, the need to incorporate or revise curricular elements is highlighted, aiming to promote a deeper integration between the theoretical and practical dimensions in the preparation of students for qualitative research and teaching. Conclusions: The course reinforced the relevance of qualitative methods in physical therapy, showing how they provide a deeper understanding of patients' experiences. The international orientation enriched the training, highlighting the need to integrate these methodologies into practice and research to improve the quality of care provided.