Impact Of An Educational Workshop On Occupational Therapy Student Perceptions Of People With Justice System Involvement,
2025
Midwestern University - Downers Grove
Impact Of An Educational Workshop On Occupational Therapy Student Perceptions Of People With Justice System Involvement, Emily K. Simpson, Sara Engimann, Jamie N. Deal, Sydney M. Sabbagha, Lexi Frazier
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
The United States has the highest number of people per capita in detention centers when compared to all other nations in the world. Stigma exists against people with justice system involvement, resulting in discrimination by healthcare providers and students and ultimately health inequities. This convergent mixed-methods study aimed to impact occupational therapy students’ (N=25) knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about the criminal justice system and people with justice system involvement. The workshop included education, a panel of people with lived experience, and an occupational therapist with experiences in the criminal justice system. Significant changes were seen in the number of correct …
The Influence Of Student Personality Traits On Satisfaction And Success In Online Education In Higher Education: A Systematic Review,
2025
Bowling Green State University
The Influence Of Student Personality Traits On Satisfaction And Success In Online Education In Higher Education: A Systematic Review, Elizabeth G. Hunter, Jayna Niblock, Samantha Barefoot, Jackson Miller, Jason Hughes, Lydia Kite, Edith Scarletto
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Online learning is a growing area in occupational therapy education. It is important for faculty to use the modality of online learning to understand the influence of student personality traits, defined as relatively stable characteristics that influence thinking and behavior, on student satisfaction and success in graduate level programs. By understanding the influence of personality traits, faculty can better develop online materials that are flexible enough to support individuals who may have a higher risk of low satisfaction and success. There has been plentiful research in the areas of education and psychology assessing the influence of personality on the online …
Belonging And The Lived Experiences Of Underrepresented Occupational Therapy Students,
2025
Leeds Beckett University
Belonging And The Lived Experiences Of Underrepresented Occupational Therapy Students, Daniel Cezar Da Cruz, Angela Murphy, Zara Mahmood
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Belonging has been explored in research in higher education with a focus on student engagement or performance and the impact of psychological aspects on individuals' learning. Few studies focused on underrepresented occupational therapy students’ belonging. Our research aimed to explore the lived experience of occupational therapy students regarding belonging at university. This phenomenological study was conducted with six occupational therapy students from the United Kingdom who volunteered to participate in semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was carried out through Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA). Three themes were constructed: Theme 1: Representation and belonging - “I was the only non-white person in the …
Culturally Sensitive Mentorship In Occupational Therapy Education,
2025
New York University
Culturally Sensitive Mentorship In Occupational Therapy Education, Janet Njelesani, Shanteria Watson, Amanda Gahlot, Ayesha Ahmed, Grace Kim
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Mentorship provides crucial support and guidance for students, significantly influencing their academic and professional success. Mentorship experiences can vary considerably, with students from historically underrepresented groups facing racism, discrimination, and a lack of opportunities in their professional development. Despite the recognized need for culturally sensitive mentorship, there is a lack of literature within occupational therapy that focuses on the mentoring experiences of students from historically underrepresented groups. This study aimed to address this gap by exploring occupational therapy students’ mentoring needs and experiences to inform the future development of culturally sensitive mentoring programs. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey, the study collected …
Financial Literacy Among Occupational Therapy Students: A Survey Study,
2025
Worcester State University
Financial Literacy Among Occupational Therapy Students: A Survey Study, Joanne Gallagher Worthley, Sarah Dimeo, Tanya Trudell
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Occupational therapy students face professional and personal financial literacy challenges. Professionally, financial management has been identified as an instrumental activity of daily living, and recent research has examined how occupational therapy has helped clients with these skills. Personally, occupational therapy students may face higher debt levels due to degree escalation and economic changes. The study aimed to determine the level of understanding of financial literacy among matriculating occupational therapy students in a combined baccalaureate and entry-level master’s program. Nineteen occupational therapy students completed a virtual survey distributed through Google Forms. The survey included demographic questions, the Financial Self-Efficacy Scale (FSES), …
Predictors Of Nbcot Examination Pass Rates: The Role Of Gpa, Gre, And Otke Scores In Occupational Therapy Education,
2025
Murray State University
Predictors Of Nbcot Examination Pass Rates: The Role Of Gpa, Gre, And Otke Scores In Occupational Therapy Education, Sherri Powers, Lori Eggers Saxby, Christopher Mecklin
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Given the critical role of National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification in occupational therapy (OT) practice, this study examined predictors of NBCOT examination success to inform program improvement. Analyzing data from 59 Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) graduates at a single institution over the course of three years (2020–2022), a retrospective design with logistic regression assessed undergraduate grade point average (GPA), prerequisite GPA, within-program GPA, Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, and pre- and post- Occupational Therapy Knowledge Examination (OTKE) scores as predictors of first-attempt NBCOT pass rates. Of 58 students with reported outcomes, 56% passed …
Work Readiness Among Occupational Therapy Students In The Usa: Associations With Approaches To Studying,
2025
Alliant International University - San Diego
Work Readiness Among Occupational Therapy Students In The Usa: Associations With Approaches To Studying, Adele Breen-Franklin, Colleen M. Maher, Tore Bonsaksen
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Previous studies have looked at the association between study approaches and student grades with a focus on deep, strategic, and surface learning. This study used a cross-sectional design to examine the association between study approaches and students’ feelings of readiness to practice. Thirty-five students in master’s and clinical doctoral programs completed the Work Readiness Scale and the short 18-item version of the Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students (ASSIST). Using a linear regression analysis, higher scores on the strategic study approach (β=0.38, p<0.05) and lower scores on the surface study approach (β=-0.44, p<0.05) were associated with higher scores on the Work Readiness Scale. Studying harder (i.e. spending more hours studying) was not related to feeling ready to practice. Rather, studying wisely, meaning using a strategic approach to studying and avoiding using a surface approach, was associated with students’ increased feeling of readiness to practice.
Trauma-Informed Care In Occupational Therapy Education,
2025
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions
Trauma-Informed Care In Occupational Therapy Education, Cristina H. Scionti, Mary Shotwell, Donnamarie Krause
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Students bring their life histories, including traumatic experiences, to their learning and education. Potentially up to 75% of the student body of occupational therapy programs may have experienced a traumatic event, which often leads to occupational disruption and challenges in academic performance. Thus, it is critical for occupational therapy educators to mitigate the impact of trauma by identifying the barriers and facilitators to occupational participation in education for occupational therapy students affected by trauma. Despite the high prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), research shows that few health professions education programs, such as occupational therapy, attend to ACEs or utilize …
The Re-Design Of Level I Fieldwork To Foster Professional Competence And Career Adaptability,
2025
University of Pittsburgh
The Re-Design Of Level I Fieldwork To Foster Professional Competence And Career Adaptability, Cara A. Lekovitch, Ann Marsico, Ketki Raina
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Professional competence and career adaptability are essential for preparing students to meet modern healthcare demands. However, there is a paucity of evidence to guide teaching and learning of these constructs in the context of Level I fieldwork (FW). This paper details a Level I FW program re-design using a professional competence framework to foster adaptability. The re-design’s impact was assessed through student surveys before and after their participation (n = 53) compared to a historical cohort one-year senior (n = 60) using the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale – Short Form. Significant improvements were found in total and concern, curiosity, and confidence …
Harnessing Social Media For Occupational Therapy Graduate Program Recruitment,
2025
Rush University
Harnessing Social Media For Occupational Therapy Graduate Program Recruitment, Rebecca Ozelie, Annika Knuth
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
The occupational therapy (OT) profession faces a national enrollment decline, with many United States graduate programs struggling to fill seats. As social media use continues to rise among young adults, OT programs may benefit from leveraging digital platforms to enhance visibility and attract qualified applicants. This study explored how prospective students engage with OT program social media accounts and what content influences their admissions decisions. Using a cross-sectional survey design, 161 current or incoming OT graduate students from programs across the United States were surveyed about their social media habits during the admissions process. Results revealed that 69.5% of participants …
Demographic Factors As Predictors Of Academic Performance In First- And Second-Year Occupational Therapy Students,
2025
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
Demographic Factors As Predictors Of Academic Performance In First- And Second-Year Occupational Therapy Students, Eileen Du Plooy, Daleen Casteleijn, Denise Franzsen, Gopika Ramkilawon
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Significant disparities in academic performance that may be associated with specific demographics can be utilized for supporting diverse student cohorts. Strategies can be developed for students to enhance equity and inclusivity in undergraduate occupational therapy education to ensure student success. This study aimed to determine the predictive demographic factors influencing academic performance among first- and second-year undergraduate occupational therapy students at a university in South Africa. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was utilized, and the sample included 129 first- and second-year students. Data were collected retrospectively from university records and student dashboards. Key demographic and academic variables were analyzed, including personal …
Designing An Effective Online Study Abroad Program: Effects On Intercultural Communication, Sensitivity, And Professional Identity Development,
2025
San Jose State University
Designing An Effective Online Study Abroad Program: Effects On Intercultural Communication, Sensitivity, And Professional Identity Development, Lynne Andonian, Megan C. Chang
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Research highlights the importance of cultural competence in occupational therapy (OT) education and practice, as emphasized by both student and practitioner perspectives. Previous studies in nursing and occupational therapy posit that short-term study abroad programs, supported by adequate faculty guidance, can significantly improve cultural competency. Within the OT context, this study aims to describe the development of an online faculty-led study abroad course and examine its effects on intercultural communication, intercultural sensitivity, and professional identity among OT students. The paper also provides a detailed course description, outcome assessments aligned with the course learning objectives, a discussion of challenges and opportunities, …
Effective Implementation Of Ebook Guide Supports Student Success In Occupational Therapy Anatomy Education,
2025
Samuel Merritt University
Effective Implementation Of Ebook Guide Supports Student Success In Occupational Therapy Anatomy Education, Karissa Legleiter, Barb Puder, Rhea R. Kimpo
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
EBooks have been proven to be a successful supplemental resource in cadaveric anatomy laboratory sessions. However, the implementation of the eBook and its impact on student performance, especially in occupational therapy (OT) anatomy laboratory sessions, has not been well documented. This study shows that providing students with an eBook guide enhances student learning and increases eBook usage. For lab sessions, an eBook guide directed students to eBook specific figures and text that related to that session’s material. In alignment with the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, providing eBooks as well as a guide gave students multiple avenues to learn …
Navigating The Future Of Ot Education: Student Insights On Integrating Course-Specific Ai Chatbots,
2025
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Navigating The Future Of Ot Education: Student Insights On Integrating Course-Specific Ai Chatbots, Laura E. Landon, Nicole Grames, Maggie Gannon, Addison Jarus, Annie Trezza
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education has garnered much attention, prompting educators to thoughtfully examine its implementation within their curricula. This study explores the perceptions of occupational therapy (OT) students regarding the future integration of a novel, course-specific Anatomy AI chatbot: an innovative tool uniquely developed by our internal team to provi¬¬¬de personalized support and resources tailored specifically to the anatomy curriculum. The researchers sought to understand the desired features of a course-specific Anatomy AI chatbot and the factors that influenced student willingness to adopt this technology in their learning experience. Findings revealed that 79% of participants …
Theory-Driven Design, Theory-Integrated Learning: A Multimodal Approach To Teaching Occupational Adaptation,
2025
University of Florida
Theory-Driven Design, Theory-Integrated Learning: A Multimodal Approach To Teaching Occupational Adaptation, Anna B. Galloway, Lorrie A. George-Paschal, Linda Struckmeyer, Sara F. Israel, Nancy Krusen
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
This study explored the effectiveness of a multimodal instructional module for teaching Occupational Adaptation (OA) theory. Implemented across three entry-level occupational therapy doctoral (OTD) programs, faculty designed and implemented asynchronous preparatory lectures, a face-to-face experiential lab, and guided discussions of the learning experiences. Researchers employed a convergent mixed-methods design, integrating qualitative and quantitative data. Students (n=108) completed a pre- and post-knowledge exam, the Relative Mastery Scale (RMS), and a Learning Experience Questionnaire. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed statistically significant differences in pre-and post- knowledge scores and RMS ratings across all sites, with no differences based on university. Qualitative analysis yielded …
Understanding And The Perceived Value Of Contemporary Pain Neuroscience Education Among Occupational Therapy Students,
2025
Belmont University
Understanding And The Perceived Value Of Contemporary Pain Neuroscience Education Among Occupational Therapy Students, Sue E. Curfman, Elicia Dunn Cruz, Diana A. Harrison, Will J. Best, Kathryn Schmidt
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Chronic pain is a leading cause of global disability, yet occupational therapy education often lacks sufficient coverage of multidisciplinary pain management approaches. The purposes of this study were to 1) determine the level of understanding of contemporary pain neuroscience in occupational therapy doctoral (OTD) students; 2) evaluate the effectiveness of instructional techniques to improve their knowledge of contemporary pain neuroscience; and 3) explore their perceptions of pain neuroscience and its implications for their future roles. This pre-post test within-subject experimental design study, involving 39 OTD students, assessed the impact and perceptions of a two-hour pain education module. The revised Neurophysiology …
Assessing The Impact Of High-Fidelity Simulation Experiences On Student Confidence In A Controlled Academic Environment,
2025
Lincoln Memorial University
Assessing The Impact Of High-Fidelity Simulation Experiences On Student Confidence In A Controlled Academic Environment, Jillian K. Pindar, Peyton Belton, Madison Griffin, Abbi Hancock, Lucero Limones, Kristi Self, Elizabeth K. Schmidt
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
A quasi-experimental one group pretest-posttest design was utilized with 19 first-and-second-year doctoral occupational therapy students at a university in Tennessee to evaluate confidence, performance, benefits, challenges, and recommendations from an acute care simulation experience. Student confidence was evaluated using a researcher-developed survey immediately before and after a high-fidelity simulation using a pre-programmed mannequin and standardized script. A performance assessment evaluated students' skills during the simulation. The post-test survey included open-ended questions on perceived benefits, challenges and recommendations. Overall, students demonstrated increased confidence in vital sign monitoring and modification (heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate), medical equipment identification, and safe patient …
Comparing Occupational Therapy Students’ And Occupational Therapy Assistant Students’ Perceptions Of An Intraprofessional Class Session,
2025
Samuel Merritt University
Comparing Occupational Therapy Students’ And Occupational Therapy Assistant Students’ Perceptions Of An Intraprofessional Class Session, Robyn Wu, Diane Tom, Domenique Embrey, Joyce M. Fries
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Intraprofessional education between occupational therapy (OT) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) students can be a valuable component of the entry-level curriculum. Comparisons of OT vs. OTA students’ perceptions are sparse, yet this information may yield important insights about intraprofessional learning needs. This mixed methods study explored student perceptions of a three-hour joint OT/OTA class session conducted via video conferencing. Learning activities were grounded in shared leadership and two-way feedback and included collaboration on a client case. A total of 172 anonymous post-class feedback surveys were received from 121 OT students and 57 OTA students over three academic years. The study …
The Effectiveness Of Blended Online Do-Live-Well Workshops For Occupational Therapists,
2025
McMaster University
The Effectiveness Of Blended Online Do-Live-Well Workshops For Occupational Therapists, Sungha Kim, Rebecca Gewurtz, Sandra Moll, Nadine Larivière, Lori Letts
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
The Do-Live-Well (DLW) framework was developed by occupational therapists (OTs) to demonstrate how engaging in various activities can impact health and well-being of people. The DLW team has provided education for OTs across the world, and there has been a need for online learning with synchronous features. This study aimed to examine the impact of blended online DLW workshops that combined asynchronous and synchronous educational formats for OTs. We evaluated changes in participants’ knowledge of the DLW framework, factors influencing framework adoption in practice, satisfaction with the workshop, and actual use of the framework. Descriptive statistics were used for the …
From Measuring Professional Behaviors To Developing Professional Identity: Use Of The Pie Tool In Occupational Therapy Education,
2025
Missouri State University
From Measuring Professional Behaviors To Developing Professional Identity: Use Of The Pie Tool In Occupational Therapy Education, Ashlea D. Cardin, Tara L. Boehne, Naomie Corro
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Defining and measuring "professionalism" in academic occupational therapy (OT) programs is a highly interpretative and formidable task, as evidenced in the literature and revised language in the 2023 ACOTE® Standards. Within the context of a university assessment workshop, a team of OT educators and students used an occupation- and strengths-based lens to consider “professional identity.” The team subsequently developed an innovative criterion-referenced, growth-tracking professionalism tool (“The Professional Identity Evaluation [PIE] Tool”) for use in didactic OT education and advisement. The team initiated a multi-year trial of the PIE Tool in periodic advisement and gathered students' perspectives of (1) the use …
