Community Health Fair as Experiential Learning: Interprofessional Faculty and Student Perspectives

Authors

• Sharon Stevenson, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
• Martha Rojo, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
• Jing Jin, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
• Erickson Feliciano, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
• Margaret Love, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
• Scott Wright, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Traditional, precepted clinical practice sites continue to decline. Community health fairs (CHFs), led by experienced interprofessional faculty, present a valuable opportunity. In addition, CHFs provide students with hands-on experience in real-world settings.

Aim: This study examined the perspectives and clinical experiences of interprofessional faculty and students participating in a CHF.

Methods: This study utilized qualitative and quantitative design. Fourteen participants (seven students, seven faculty) engaged in conversational interviews, and completed a faculty and student survey as well as a demographic survey. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sample and survey responses, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the interviews.

Results: Mean age for faculty was 43 years and mean years in teaching range from 2 to 15. The students’ mean age was 29 years. 85.7% agreed that the CHF experience was valuable and 66.7% strongly agreed that CHF is an idea setting for learning. Qualitative key themes were: 1) Hands-on learning in real-world settings, 2) Encouraging civic engagement, and 3) Collaborative learning and shared growth.

Conclusions: CHFs can serve as viable, community-based clinical learning environments that support experiential learning.

How could this topic be generalized to other health professions?

This topic contributes to the advancement of interprofessional education, practice, and research. With clinical placement shortages intensifying nationwide, our study offers actionable insights for interprofessional educators seeking alternative, scalable training models. The findings are particularly relevant for programs integrating interprofessional education (IPE) or community-based learning into curricula.

Which allied health professions were a part of the study or investigated?

Nursing; Dental Hygiene,; Nurse Practitioner

Recommended Citation

Stevenson, S., Rojo, M., Jin, J., Feliciano, E., Love, M., & Wright, S. (2026). Community Health Fair as Experiential Learning: Interprofessional Faculty and Student Perspectives. Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration, 6(2). Retrieved from https://repository.ulm.edu/ojihp/vol6/iss2/1