معرفی
Erika R. Francis serves as Professor and Director of the Division of Physician Assistant Studies at Shenandoah University's School of Health Professions in Winchester, VA. With clinical experience since 2014 across primary care, occupational medicine, and emergency medicine settings, including international practice in Nicaragua and Ghana, she brings substantial real-world expertise to her academic role.
Dr. Francis holds a D.M.S. (Doctor of Medical Science) and M.S. in Physician Assistant Studies from Shenandoah University, along with a B.A. in Mathematics and Studio Art with concentration in Graphic Design from Salem College. Her educational background uniquely combines analytical and creative disciplines, which informs her innovative approach to medical education.
Her research focuses on virtual reality applications for health professions education, assessment methodologies, and educational technology integration. She has pioneered work in immersive learning environments for physician assistant students, particularly through virtual reality operating room simulations that enhance clinical self-efficacy. Her scholarship examines telepresence learning, OSCE assessment methodologies, and faculty development challenges in PA education.
Dr. Francis serves on the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) End of Curriculum Exam Development Board since 2018, contributing to national assessment standards. Her publications reveal consistent themes in educational innovation, assessment improvement, and the integration of technology to enhance medical training experiences.
- Transformative Teaching & Learning Fellowship (2021-2022)
- Wilkins Appreciation Award (2021)
- Shenandoah University Board of Trustees Resolution in Appreciation (2020)
- Faculty Technology Fellow (2017-2019)
As Director of Physician Assistant Studies, Dr. Francis mentors numerous students and collaborates extensively with clinical preceptors. Her Transformative Teaching Fellowship explored gamification in medical education, while her Faculty Technology Fellowship focused on virtual reality integration for healthcare professional training. She maintains active clinical practice alongside her academic responsibilities, ensuring her teaching remains grounded in current medical practice.
