SPETA Program
Standardized Physical Exam Teaching Associates (SPETAs) are specifically trained to coach Year 1 medical students as they learn physical exam skills.
Team members give “hands on” instruction, using their own bodies as teaching tools. In addition to teaching the skills, they also give feedback on technique, language and overall approach. They also address the communication skills needed to provide a comfortable exam in a standardized manner in a supportive, non-threatening environment.
Standardized Physical Exam Teaching Associate (SPETA) Job Description
General Responsibility
The Standardized Physical Exam Teaching Associates (SPETAs) are specifically trained to coach Year 01 medical students as they learn physical exam skills. They give “hands on” instruction, using their own bodies as teaching tools. In addition to teaching the skills, they also give feedback on technique, language, and overall approach. They also address the communication skills needed to provide a comfortable exam in a standardized manner in a supportive, non-threatening environment.
Individuals interested in applying to work as SPETAs must possess the following:
- Ability to discuss and feel comfortable demonstrating his/her anatomy with
- Ability to communicate and convey information accurately and
- Enthusiastic personality with strong interpersonal
- Demonstrated maturity and professionalism to keep learners on
- Interest in contributing to the education and development of healthcare
Work Hours
- This is an hourly, temporary position at the UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences and as such, is not eligible for any employee
- Successful applicants will be required to attend group training
- SPETA sessions typically fall on weekday afternoons (between 12:30 & 4:30 pm) Anticipated number of teaching sessions: 10 – 15 per academic semester
- Work schedules would be planned as far in advance as
Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent is
- Ages 20+, physically fit males or females, with no current or ongoing health
- Excellent ability to communicate in and comprehend the English language (due to use of medical terminology).
- Flexibility regarding
- Reliable, punctual, and
- Must possess strong communication skills, both written and
- Strong reading and writing
- Attention to detail is essential
- Experience in health professions, communication, behavioral sciences, or education helpful, but not required.
- If you are currently employed at the University of North Dakota for 20 or more hours a week, you are not eligible to participate in this
Salary
- $20 per hour for all training and teaching
If you are interested in becoming a SPETA, please visit the UND HR web site to fill out the application here.
Once the application has been received and reviewed, selected candidates will be contacted to set up an interview. Interviews take place periodically during the year, depending on the needs of the medical curriculum.