Effect of Interactive Wearable Sensor Technology Training in Physiotherapy Students

Abstract

Objective: Wearable sensor technology offers significant potential in physiotherapy and rehabilitation by providing new ways to monitor patient progress and assess interventions. Despite this, its integration into physiotherapy education is still emerging. This study evaluates the impact of interactive sensor training on the knowledge level of wearable sensor technology among physiotherapy students. Method: A total of 111 physiotherapy students from Fenerbahçe University's Faculty of Health Sciences participated in this study. The training involved hands-on sessions with Euleria Health's Riablo and XClinic products. The training session, focused on wearable motion sensors using Euleria Health's Riablo and XClinic products, was conducted to enhance students' understanding. Knowledge levels were assessed before and after the training using a specially designed 20-item Likert-type questionnaire. Results: Paired-samples t-tests and Pearson correlation analyses were conducted to evaluate the data. The results showed a significant increase in knowledge scores post-training, rising from 66.00±17.58 to 77.65±22.06 (p<0.001). Pearson correlation analysis indicated a positive relationship between students' CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) and their pre- and post-training knowledge scores, with correlations of r=0.230 (p=0.018) and r=0.275 (p=0.005), respectively. Conclusion: The findings indicate that direct, interactive sensor training substantially improves physiotherapy students' understanding of wearable sensor technology. The observed positive correlation between academic performance and knowledge gains suggests that students with higher academic achievements may derive greater benefits from this training. Integrating such practical sessions into educational programs is essential for equipping future professionals with the skills needed to effectively implement emerging technologies in clinical practice.