Bridging Worlds: Collaborative Learning in the College of Technology

Jordan Williams, a clinical instructor in the Nuclear Operations Technology program, recognized that ergonomics is essential for nuclear technicians to ensure critical tasks are performed safely and effectively in order to reduce human error in high-stakes environments. This idea can be applied to working in gloveboxes and managing radiological contaminants where ergonomics is pivotal to keeping workers safe from physical injury such as impingements and over extensions. Wanting to make ergonomics a focus of his course, Williams had the innovative idea to draw from the extensive knowledge and expertise already within the College of Technology and contacted Nash Johnson, the clinical education coordinator for the PTA program. Johnson was enthusiastic about the opportunity for his students to engage in this creative learning opportunity and facilitated an exercise where they applied their knowledge of ergonomic practices to develop a tailored program focused on promoting health and preventing injuries. 

To bring this collaboration to life, PTA students ventured into the nuclear operations classroom where they practiced real-life application of their educational training. By incorporating proper body mechanics alongside targeted stretching and exercise routines, nuclear technicians can significantly reduce the risk of physical injury while working long hours with radiological contaminants in gloveboxes. In groups, the PTA students developed exercise plans targeting specific body areas impacted by glovebox work — the wrist and hand, elbow, shoulder, neck and upper back, and lower back. 

“After regularly performing the exercises I learned from the PTA students, all of my aches and pains I experience have begun to vanish,” said Angelo Justice, a nuclear operations technology student. “It’s something I’ll now continue to do for the rest of my life.” 

Feedback like this deeply resonated with PTA student Alice Madson who was reminded of her passion for how physical therapy can transform individual’s lives. “Having this first hand experience made me see how we can really help these people, be there for them, and make an impact on their future,” said Madson. “That is the reason I went into PTA, it felt really rewarding.”

This partnership not only equipped students for long and successful careers but also provided them with valuable insights into real-world applications that strengthened their connection to their education.Using a hands-on approach reinforced understanding of ergonomic principles and fostered creativity when students adapted exercises to accommodate diverse abilities among their College of Technology peers. “It was really fun to be able to think outside the box and help somebody in different ways,” said Maddie Russon, PTA student. “Each person was different so to be able to take the exercises we made and tailor them to the individual was a great way to use our education.” 

The collaboration between these two programs serves as a powerful example that can inspire others to follow their lead. The Program Coordinator of the Nuclear Operations Technology program, Mackenzie Gorham said “Faculty that seek input outside their area of expertise to create the best educational environment for students, provide a more enriching college experience and prepare students better for the workplace.” The College of Technology offers a diverse array of programs, each with unique skill sets and specializations. This abundance of resources creates exceptional learning opportunities and resources that enhance the overall educational experience and prepare students for entry into the workforce.

For more information visit our program websites: isu.edu/pta and isu.edu/nuclearoperations.