FORMATION OF COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE IN FUTURE PHYSICAL THERAPISTS THROUGH AN INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH

Abstract

The article addresses the problem of developing communicative competence in future physical therapists within the framework of interdisciplinary training. The purpose of the study is to identify effective pedagogical conditions and methodological strategies that promote the formation of communicative competence as an integral component of the professional training of physical therapy students. The objectives of the study include: analyzing theoretical foundations of communicative competence; studying the specifics of communication in the professional activities of physical therapists; evaluating existing interdisciplinary practices in higher education institutions; and identifying the didactic potential of interdisciplinary integration for improving communicative training. Research methods included theoretical analysis and synthesis, pedagogical observation, expert evaluation of educational programs, and analysis of students’ communicative behavior in simulated and real professional situations. The study reveals that the formation of communicative competence in future physical therapists requires systematic inclusion of interdisciplinary modules that combine knowledge from medicine, psychology, pedagogy, and social communication. The interdisciplinary approach contributes to deeper understanding of patient-centered communication, teamwork, and empathy. Based on the findings, practical recommendations are provided for the implementation of interdisciplinary strategies into physical therapy curricula in institutions of higher education.