Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

The Bronco Well: An Educational Podcast For Pediatric Caregivers’ Wellbeing & Quality Of Life, Molly Veldheer

Capstone Projects

Pediatric caregivers of children with increased and complex physical, cognitive, and emotional needs are an often-overlooked population. Though their children may be involved in many essential services including occupational therapy, the needs of these caregivers largely go unmet. Occupational therapists are equipped to provide valuable care and education to the entire family and not just their pediatric clients. In efforts to fill the unmet needs, this occupational therapy-based podcast was created as resource for pediatric caregivers about pediatric caregivers. The development of this capstone considered the time, energy, and financial strains that are often placed on pediatric caregivers and determined …

Occupational Therapy & Zoo Exhibit Design: Embedding Accessibility Within, Jacqui Randall

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed at the Indianapolis Zoo. Zoos and museums infrequently contract, but very few employ an occupational therapist to assist with exhibit design development. An occupational therapy consultant could assess exhibit accessibility and provide potential solutions to make them more accessible and inclusive for individuals with disabilities. The goal of the project was to create a list of refined recommendations to make the oceans building more accessible and incorporate more multisensory experiences when it is renovated in the spring of 2027. Also, the Accessibility and Sensation Among Zoo Exhibits and Interactives: Checklist and Application Guide was …

From Theory To Practice: Splint Fabrication Through Occupational Therapy Video Library, Caitlyn Mccaughey

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) highlights the need for educational resources on occupational therapy splint fabrication by producing a comprehensive video library to aid skill acquisition among students and new graduates. This project involved developing 21 tutorial videos featuring detailed, step-by-step demonstrations designed to accommodate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles amongst individuals. A literature review emphasized the growing popularity of video-based education and the lack of accessible, high-quality splinting resources, with a needs assessment revealing low confidence levels among occupational therapy students due to limited educational support. Through collaboration and integration of evidence-based practices, this project successfully produced an …

Bridging The Gap: A Trauma-Informed Approach To Real-Time Counselor Support Training At Kesem, Elizabeth Fallon

Capstone Projects

This capstone project involved the development and implementation of a trauma-informed care training program for college-aged counselors within Kesem, a nonprofit organization supporting children affected by a parent or caregiver’s cancer. The project addressed gaps in existing counselor training related to recognizing and responding to trauma in real time. The literature identified increased risk for psychosocial challenges in this population, including anxiety, depression, as well as the importance of peer support, safe environments, and developmentally appropriate communication.

The training program included different modules on trauma, grief, and child development, as well as interactive role-play scenarios tailored to different age groups …

Life Skills To Promote Independence Following Discharge From Inpatient Psychiatric Care, Alli Bammert

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience focused on program development through the creation and implementation of a structured life skills program and the initial planning of a simulated life skills training space within an inpatient psychiatric setting at Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital. Individuals with serious mental illness often experience barriers to community reintegration following hospitalization and benefit from opportunities to practice daily living skills prior to discharge (Gibson et al., 2011). In response to this need, a 12-week life skills curriculum was developed and piloted to address topics including daily routines, medication management, emotional regulation, grocery shopping, cooking, employment readiness, technology use, and …

Implementation Of A Cardio Drumming Program To Promote Health And Wellbeing In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Amanda Moyer

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience focused on implementation of a cardio drumming program at the Ecumenical Senior Center (ESC), a day center for older adults, in Kalamazoo Michigan. Cardio drumming is a unique way of exercise that combines drumming to upbeat music with an exercise ball, laundry basket, and drumsticks. Cardio drumming is low impact and can be adapted to many different abilities. This form of exercise can be done in a seated or standing position. The program began once a week for 30 minutes but soon increased to two times a week for 35 minutes and lasted 9 weeks due …

Creation And Implementation Of Nature And Sensory Based Therapy Programming To Support The Health And Well-Being Of Catholic Dominican Sisters, Sydney Payne

Capstone Projects

As the older generation ages, diseases such as dementia can cause sensory processing systems to be less efficient. When they become less efficient, it can create confusion and undermine one’s sense of safety (Champagne, 2018 pg 29-30). Engaging in sensory experiences provides support for these deficits while fostering participation in everyday life activities (Champagne, 2018 pg 30). This capstone project included a sensory garden (nature-based therapy) and associated multi-sensory activities. This was done through creation of nature and sensory-based programming, implementation of this programming one-on-one with sisters, two group sensory, dementia-friendly activities, and formation of a sustainability binder. Occupational therapy …

Social Skill Program Development For Adults With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Clayton Stapert

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was completed at the Center for Disability Services (CDS) and focused on developing and implementing a social skills program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Many existing social skills programs focus on general or work-related skills, but there is a need for programs that help individuals apply social skills during real-life community activities. This project aimed to address that gap by creating a structured, occupation-based program within an adult day skill-building day center.

The program included education, group discussion, role-playing, and community outings to help participants practice skills such as interacting with cashiers, …

The Ethical Limits Of Physician Autonomy In Reproductive Medicine, Isabel Martens

Honors Theses

In vitro fertilization is a relatively new medical practice that helps people who face infertility be able to reproduce. Reproductive medicine providers face ethical dilemmas often in their field, only some of which have standards of care. There are questions in the medical landscape pertaining to physician autonomy versus patient autonomy, which heavily apply to reproductive medicine providers. Patient autonomy is highly valued in medical ethics; however, physician autonomy should also be considered. When a physician decides who can and cannot reproduce, ethical considerations must be followed to maintain the practice of reproductive autonomy. Limited policies exist that manage reproductive …

Reconstructing Life One Clay Pot At A Time, Kelly Allen

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Kate Lewis, a ceramicist and teaching artist based in Grand Rapids, MI, created the artwork for the Winter 2026 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). The image features a collection of heart-shaped ceramic pinch pots, produced after she was told she may never be able to move her left arm again. She created them on the recommendation of an occupational therapist who understood the value of meaningful occupations for recovery. These vessels represent a pivotal shift in Kate’s rehabilitation from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Diagnosed in 2018 after sustaining an injury to her wrist, the minor …

Meeting Population Health Needs: Are Occupational Therapy Health Promotion Programs Scalable?, Tracy Chippendale, Szu-Wei Chen

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

No abstract provided.

Facilitators And Barriers To Sustainable Global Rehabilitation Projects, Fredrick Pociask, Rosanne Dizazzo-Miller

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

The sustainability of projects addressing significant rehabilitation needs in lower-resource countries is considered one of the most critical outcomes of these initiatives. While some information is available from public health and medical projects on promoting sustainability, less evidence exists on facilitators and barriers to the sustainability of global rehabilitation development projects. Interviews with eleven medical and rehabilitation professionals, each with over 8 years of experience in global project development, contributed to the discussion of barriers and facilitators for sustainability with direct implications for occupational therapy practice and research. The presence of established professional standards was a distinctive facilitator, and disruptions …

Brain Gains: A Review Of Remediation Treatment Strategies Using Exercise Following Traumatic Brain Injury, Jessica Smith, Kristin Biggins, Loriann Helgeson

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

In this Opinions in the Profession article, we explore remediation treatment strategies using exercise for recovery from post-traumatic brain injury and aim to justify the use of such treatment in the occupational therapy profession to increase skills for functional gain. Common treatment strategies used by occupational therapists after brain injury are compensatory strategies, indicating the client learns a new way to perform the task. Though effective, it is also necessary to consider how remediation and neuroplasticity are essential. Teaching new approaches to complete tasks results in functional gains; however, focusing on foundational skills using exercises to relearn motor patterns to …

Professional Standards As Gateways, Not Barriers, In Occupational Therapy, Ryan Thomure

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

No abstract provided.

Understanding Graduate Occupational Therapy Educators’ Use Of Trauma-Informed Approaches In The Classroom, Sean M. Brim

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Traumatic events can alter the brain structure and affect cognitive capacities and academic performance. Educators at all grade levels are responsible for supporting students through trauma-informed approaches. Previous trauma-informed research focused on K–12 education levels. The experience of graduate-level occupational therapy educators who have applied trauma-informed approaches to improve student learning have not been explored. This general qualitative study explored the experiences of occupational therapy educators who used trauma-informed approaches. The conceptual framework was the trauma-informed care model. Ten graduate-level occupational therapy educators with at least 1 year of teaching experience were recruited and participated in semi structured interviews. Data …

Perceived Educational Value Of Different Types Of Simulation In Occupational Therapy Education: A Mixed-Methods Study, Marie-Eve Bolduc, Barbara Shankland, Bernadette Nedelec

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Simulation is an important instructional method in occupational therapy (OT) programs. However, it remains unclear if the various types of simulation hold the same educational value. The objective of this study was to determine the perceived educational value of three different types of simulations (role-play between students, live scenarios with simulated patients [SPs] and tele-simulation with SPs) and the factors that contributed to a higher educational value. This cross-sectional study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. An online questionnaire was used, and two focus groups were conducted to develop a richer understanding of the answers obtained in the questionnaire. Forty-two …

Investigating The Efficacy Of An Online Multigenerational Awareness Course For Occupational Therapy Students – A Pilot Study, Susan Blair, Barbara M. Doucet, Jerilyn Callen, Kirsten Davin, Shelby Hutchinson

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

In today’s multigenerational society, particularly in health care settings, thriving can be challenging because of generational differences. Occupational therapy educational programs (OTEPs) prepare students for work environments where three to four different generations may be present. This study examines the effectiveness of an online multigenerational awareness (MGA) course. The secondary objectives include increasing students’ knowledge of enhanced multigenerational collaboration and communication strategies in preparation for future clinical practice. A pilot group of eight participants from various university departments reviewed the course content and completed preenrollment and postenrollment surveys, providing feedback regarding the applicability and perceived usefulness of the multigenerational awareness …

Intentional Resiliency Mentoring: A Mixed Methods Study Exploring A Pilot Mentorship Program For Occupational Therapy Students, Courtney J. Taylor, Ana K. Brussa, Kate G. Barlow

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Because of high levels of reported stress, occupational therapy (OT) students’ ability to employ interpersonal skills and professionally manage conflicts is impeded. This mixed methods pilot study investigated the impact of an Intentional Relationship Model (IRM) informed mentorship program on OT students’ perceived stress and self-efficacy for interpersonal communication. Students (N = 21) completed pre and posttests of the Self Efficacy for Therapeutic Use of Self Scale (SETUS) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Six monthly mentor journals (N = 6) were collected to further explore the student experience. Quantitative findings demonstrated students’ (N = 21) ability to manage stress …

Occupational Therapy Students’ Perspectives On Using Virtual Reality Simulation In Preparation For Objective Structured Clinical Examinations: A Qualitative Study, Pegah Firouzeh, Craig R. St. Jean, Christine Ha, Mary Roduta Roberts

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

The use of virtual reality (VR) simulations in clinical education has been receiving increased research attention. The purpose of this study was to investigate first-year occupational therapy (OT) students’ experiences using a VR-simulated clinical interview as part of their preparation for a client history-taking Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). This qualitative study used focus groups to understand students’ (n = 20) perceptions of the effect of VR simulation on learning and exam readiness. We also explored students’ perceptions of the simulation’s authenticity, strengths, and weaknesses. Qualitative data analysis was conducted to identify codes and develop categories in association with the …

Ruth Coleman Denard (1906-2002): One Of The First Registered Black Occupational Therapists, Mirline Milien

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

The experiences and contributions of underrepresented groups in the occupational therapy profession are insufficiently explored and largely absent from occupational therapy education. For instance, the narratives of early Black occupational therapists and students are virtually nonexistent in the literature. As the profession moves toward greater inclusivity, it is essential to uncover these hidden stories and legacies to better understand the profession’s evolution and help shape its future. This article highlights Ruth Coleman Denard, one of the first registered Black occupational therapists in the United States, and provides an overview of her career trajectory. Historical research methods, including a review of …

An Occupation-Based Review Of Assessments Used In Pediatric Occupational Therapy Practice, Alysha Skuthan, Wendy B. Stav, Gracyn Mcvey, Jennifer Martinez, Marissa Hunter, Erin Diroll, Maureen Flanagan

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Assessment tools are a critical component of the occupational therapy evaluation process. Despite the profession’s push toward occupation-centered practice, the classification of assessment tools as occupation-based versus skill-based does not exist. An occupation-based review of pediatric occupational therapy assessment tools was completed and scored according to the Occupation-Based Practice Assessment to classify assessment tools on a continuum of discrete or skill-based to occupation-based. Of the top 11 most frequently used tools, four were classified as occupation-based, three were classified as intermediate, and four were classified as discrete. In total, only 36% of commonly selected assessment tools are occupation-based. Pediatric occupational …

Maternal Role Transition: A Quality Of Life Frame Of Reference For Mothering After Nicu, Wendy Gaughan, Kathryn A. Lemonda

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists are uniquely skilled to address the needs of a new mother and the infant during transition to motherhood, as acquisition of this new role may cause a role strain with other previously held roles. New mothers to infants requiring a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization experience additional stressors and considerations during this role transition. The Maternal Role Transition (MRT) Frame of Reference is a novel, community-based approach to facilitate attainment and integration of mothering occupations and address role strain during the perinatal period. MRT is rooted in the theoretical foundations of Maternal Role Attainment Theory, Self Efficacy …

Rehabilitation Habits And Roles: The Dual Impact Of Iadls And Psychosocial Interventions Poststroke, William Sit, Ryan Hulla, Veronica Smith, Joanna Ruiz, Steve Abraham

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: This randomized study assessed an 8-week program for stroke survivors at an outpatient center in the United States. The program focuses on a holistic approach to recovery through habits and roles.

Method: Two researchers randomly divided 19 participants (N = 19) into two groups, with each group focusing on two distinct programs: the Occupational Therapy Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) program and the Psychosocial Modules (PS) program for stroke survivors. Participants attended weekly group sessions and individual phone sessions, which reinforced learned strategies, provided personalized guidance, and ensured adherence to program goals. The Canadian Occupational Performance …

Enhancing Self-Esteem In Adolescents During Acute Inpatient Psychiatric Hospitalization: A Mixed Methods Study, Praveen Injeti, Julie D. Kugel, Dragana Krpalek, Liane Hewitt, Lida Gharibvand

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Low self-esteem (LSE) can negatively impact adolescent mental health, leading to suicidal ideation (SI). Social stressors, such as peer rejections, are considered a source of stress that can contribute to LSE, SI, and subsequent admission to psychiatric facilities. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an occupational therapy intervention to improve self-awareness and self-esteem during short-term hospitalization.

Method: The research used a mixed methods approach to evaluate the impact of a psychoeducational intervention by an occupational therapist on 16 adolescents. The Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES) was used before the intervention (pretest), immediately after the intervention (posttest …

A Polyvagal And Sensory Integration And Processing Approach To Supporting Development In Young Children With Autism, Catherine Cavaliere, Nadia Rust, Michelle Rogowski, Alyssa Calderone, Rebecca Marash, Amy Zdrodowski, John Damiao

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: The polyvagal theory presents a framework for understanding the autonomic nervous system’s role in influencing behavior, engagement, and connection. Children with autism experience regulation and sensory integration and processing differences that impact their sense of felt safety and engagement in their environment. The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an auditory program designed to stimulate the vagal system and support nervous system regulation.

Methods: A retrospective multiple subject pretest-posttest design was used to examine the impact of the SSP on regulation, engagement, and skill acquisition in children with autism ages 2 to 3 enrolled in an early intervention center …

More Than Covering Ears: A Clinical Inventory For Characterizing Decreased Sound Tolerance (I-Dst) In Autism, Tana B. Carson, Angela Medina, Katherine L. Long, Yuxi Qiu, Monica Noriega

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Decreased sound tolerance (DST) is among the most common and distressing forms of sensory over-responsivity experienced by children with autism spectrum disorders. DST includes hyperacusis and misophonia, among others, and can limit participation in daily activities. Recently, a new screening tool, the Pediatric Hyperacusis and Misophonia Questionnaire (PMHQ-4) has been developed to allow health professionals to better identify and differentiate these conditions using a single assessment. Additional clinical tools are needed to further characterize DST symptoms to facilitate treatment planning after diagnosis.

Methods: In this mixed-methods study n = 15 parents of autistic children 6 to 17 …

State Of The Journal: Advancing And Promoting Frames Of Reference For Occupational Therapy Practice, Diane Powers Dirette

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

No abstract provided.

The Limits Of Daca: Affordability- And Access-Related Barriers To Health Professions Education, Nicole Perez, Laura Hirshfield

Journal of College Access

The U.S. is currently facing a shortage of health professionals from underrepresented backgrounds. One potential pathway to decrease this shortage is through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, a policy that provides temporary relief from deportation for individuals who migrated to the U.S. before age 16. This study, using 15 life-history narrative interviews, investigates the experiences of Latinx young adults who were pursuing health professions education or working as health professionals. Nine of the participants were DACA recipients, while the remaining six were second-generation (i.e., children of immigrants). An iterative, inductive approach to data analysis was used to …

High School Science Experience For Students With Cognitive Disabilities: A Pilot Study, Cassandra Wychers

Honors Theses

Although education has become more adaptive, inclusive of all students who learn differently including for people with cognitive disabilities, closer examination may reveal that high school science classrooms are still challenging learning spaces. Science is an important part of the school curriculum as it teaches students about engaging in the world around them while also encouraging skills involving evidence, inquiries, and critical thinking. All students are entitled to learn science in their classrooms even if they have a cognitive disability (Apanasionok, et al. 2019). Although there are many complexities to defining disability in the world and in education, this study …

The Effectiveness Of Telemedicine As A Pivotal Tool In Providing Accessible Medical Care, Peyton Wilt

Honors Theses

Telemedicine has emerged as one of the most transformative innovations in modern healthcare, offering new opportunities to bridge long-standing gaps in access, quality, and continuity of care. Rural and underserved communities in the United States face persistent barriers to healthcare, including provider shortages, geographic isolation, limited access to specialty services, transportation challenges, and socioeconomic disparities. These structural barriers often delay diagnosis, disrupt chronic disease management, and worsen overall health outcomes. Telemedicine provides a mechanism to address many of these obstacles by enabling remote consultations, real-time monitoring, follow-up appointments, and access to specialty providers through digital platforms.

This thesis examines the …