Bridging Technology And Fieldwork Education: Developing An Electronic Medical Record For A Simulated Level I Experience,
2025
Baylor University
Bridging Technology And Fieldwork Education: Developing An Electronic Medical Record For A Simulated Level I Experience, Ricardo G. Altahif Jr, Kirsten Davin, Yue Ma, Celina Casas
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
This study explores the development and implementation of a custom-designed simulated Electronic Medical Record (sEMR) system integrated into a simulation-based Level I occupational therapy fieldwork experience. The sEMR was collaboratively developed by the Occupational Therapy Department and the University Learning Design Team to provide occupational therapy students with realistic exposure to electronic medical record navigation and documentation. First-year Doctor of Occupational Therapy students engaged in eight patient scenarios that simulated real-world settings—two of which utilized the sEMR for chart review and documentation while the remaining six used paper-based documentation. At the conclusion of the simulation, sixty-five students completed a modified …
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), …
Vision Rehabilitation In Ot And Ota Curricula: A Survey To Academic Programs,
2025
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
Vision Rehabilitation In Ot And Ota Curricula: A Survey To Academic Programs, Angela Butler, Beth A. Barstow
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Occupational therapists are trained to evaluate and treat occupational performance problems. Client factors, such as vision, greatly impact an individuals’ ability to participate in meaningful occupations. New accreditation standards do not include language related to vision. Therapists must be prepared to evaluate and treat the increasing prevalence of visual challenges from children with cerebral visual impairment to older adults with age related conditions. This survey explored how vision rehabilitation is covered in accredited occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant programs and the expertise of faculty teaching vision content. A thirteen-question survey was sent to accredited programs. Questions included multiple response, …
Student Perceptions Of The Effectiveness Of Simulated Versus Clinical Experiences In Learning Clinical Skills,
2025
University of Pittsburgh
Student Perceptions Of The Effectiveness Of Simulated Versus Clinical Experiences In Learning Clinical Skills, Joanne M. Baird, Tracy Van Oss, Maureen Hoppe, Jean Prast, Audrey Zapletal, Ketki Raina
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Occupational therapy education programs use simulation and clinical environments to teach students clinical skills. However, students’ perceptions of how these environments meet their learning needs are not known. The objective of this study was to explore entry-level occupational therapy students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of simulation and clinical environments in learning clinical skills. This was an observational study, measuring the students’ perceptions after engaging in simulations and clinical environments. Participants were occupational therapy students enrolled in Master's and Doctorate programs (N = 460) in five accredited entry-level occupational therapy programs. Students completed the Clinical Learning Environment Comparison Survey (CLECS). CLECS …
Pedagogical Ingredients That Support The Professional Identity Development Of A Post-Professional Doctor Of Occupational Therapy,
2025
University of Southern California Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
Pedagogical Ingredients That Support The Professional Identity Development Of A Post-Professional Doctor Of Occupational Therapy, Sarah Bream, Julie Mclaughlin Gray
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Outcomes and professional characteristics of doctorate level occupational therapy graduates have been examined, yet there has been limited study of professional identity development. This paper highlights outcomes emerging from secondary analysis of data gathered in a qualitative study on the professional identity development of post-professional occupational therapy doctorate (OTD) students. Participants included 16 graduates of a post-professional OTD program. Transcripts from focus groups and final reflection papers were analyzed. Findings revealed a key theme of “Pedagogical Ingredients” that supported the development of professional identity and leadership capacities among Doctors of Occupational Therapy, and the following sub-themes: 1) Mentorship, 2) “Stepping …
Developing A Trauma Informed Occupational Therapy Workforce,
2025
Western Oregon University
Developing A Trauma Informed Occupational Therapy Workforce, Shruti Gadkari, Ethan A. Mcmahan
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Trauma is a prevalent condition that impacts individuals, groups, and populations. Trauma informed care (TIC) is a strengths-based approach that was developed to address the pervasiveness of trauma and prevent re-traumatization. Occupational therapy practitioners are likely to encounter individuals and groups who have experienced trauma and need to be familiar with the impacts of trauma as well as principles of TIC. While trauma and TIC concepts have been taught as learning modules, workshops, or continuing education courses, this study adopts the innovative approach of integrating these concepts across a two-course sequence on pediatric occupational therapy through readings, didactic content, and …
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 …
Exploring Student Experiences And Perceptions Of Digital Storytelling In Occupational Therapy Education: A Comprehensive Analysis And Evaluation,
2025
Western New England University
Exploring Student Experiences And Perceptions Of Digital Storytelling In Occupational Therapy Education: A Comprehensive Analysis And Evaluation, Alexis M. F. Morin, Justin R. Eck
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
The COVID-19 pandemic heightened the need for digital transformation in higher education, emphasizing the importance of incorporating digital pedagogy. This study explored student experiences and perceptions of digital storytelling, a multimedia-based narrative technique, as an innovative assessment method in occupational therapy education. First-year, first-semester entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy students created digital stories on mental health topics and completed self-reflection papers. A retrospective qualitative descriptive method was employed, analyzing 14 consented self-reflection papers. Emerging qualitative themes revealed that digital storytelling enhanced students' understanding of occupational performance impacts, led to the development and utilization of transferrable skills for clinical practice, and …
Reimagining Education For Ot And Ota Intraprofessional Collaboration: A Virtual Pilot Program,
2025
Mount Mary University
Reimagining Education For Ot And Ota Intraprofessional Collaboration: A Virtual Pilot Program, Katelyn Brady, Heather Beth Johnson, Alexandra Stellmach
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Intraprofessional knowledge and skills are essential to the field of occupational therapy. Despite the importance, not all occupational therapy (OT) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) educational programs provide collaborative intraprofessional experiences to students who are expected to collaborate effectively in practice. Therefore, increased intraprofessional experiences are needed to support entry-level OT practitioners. The purpose of this project was to create an intraprofessional pilot program that included three intraprofessional events to provide an opportunity for collaboration between OT and OTA students and enhance their understanding and confidence with intraprofessional collaboration prior to practice. The pilot program was implemented and evaluated using …
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 …
Factors Influencing Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program Offer Acceptance Across Student Demographics,
2025
Lincoln Memorial University
Factors Influencing Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program Offer Acceptance Across Student Demographics, Megan Hoover, Mckenna Johnson, Colleen Bullen, Elizabeth K. Schmidt, Jackson M. Miller
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
This research study aimed to identify key factors influencing Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) students' acceptance of program offers. An online survey was developed based on relevant literature and study objectives and validated through expert review. A total of 281 students, including a sub-set of students from underrepresented backgrounds (n=70), across the United States completed the survey. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, Chi-square tests with Bonferroni correction, and multinomial logistic regression including demographic variables and factors moderately to strongly influencing program acceptance. Qualitative responses were analyzed using content analysis. Key findings reveal geographic location, application process, cost …
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 …
Reading Between The Lines: Exploring Reading Trends And Metacognitive Strategy Use In Ot Education,
2025
University of Missouri
Reading Between The Lines: Exploring Reading Trends And Metacognitive Strategy Use In Ot Education, Whitney Henderson, Christine Davis, Christen Leach, Theresa Hallenen
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
No abstract provided.
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 …
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 …
Exploring Occupational Therapy Assistant Student Experiences In Mental Health, Behavioral Health, And Psychosocial Level I Fieldwork,
2025
Rutgers University - School of Health Professions
Exploring Occupational Therapy Assistant Student Experiences In Mental Health, Behavioral Health, And Psychosocial Level I Fieldwork, Tiffany L. Benaroya, Michelle Zechner, Meredith Cimmino, Ann A. Murphy, Margaret Swarbrick, Pamela Rothpletz-Puglia
Journal of Occupational Therapy Education
Occupational therapy services offered in behavioral health remain low despite the growing number of individuals with behavioral health and psychosocial needs who could benefit from these services. Concurrently, in academia, all occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant students must complete at least one fieldwork focused primarily on mental health, behavioral health, and/or psychosocial needs. Research is limited regarding these fieldwork experiences, especially among occupational therapy assistant students. This project aimed to understand this gap better and comprehend how these experiences impact readiness to work with individuals labeled with a serious mental illness. Forty-five occupational therapy assistant students completed pre- and …
