Semester 1 - Fall 2024

This course covered the foundational principles of professional occupational therapy and practice. It explored the meaning of professionalism, the diverse roles and responsibilities of occupational therapists, and the use of AOTA resources. Key topics included certification, licensure, standards of practice, scope of practice, and the code of ethics and official documents guiding occupational therapy. The course also provided an overview of essential concepts and processes used in occupational therapy practice, including areas of practice, service contexts, professional habits, credentialing, supervisory and collaborative roles with OTAs, and competencies across various practice settings.

This course provided students with a comprehensive understanding of the significance of research in the field of occupational therapy and the skills needed to analyze professional research. Students learned to discuss basic research principles, explain the application of research in practice, and critically evaluate research from occupational therapy and related professions. Key topics included foundational research concepts, an overview of research designs and methods, and strategies for critically assessing research evidence.

This first-trimester course focuses on fostering self-reflection regarding the educational journey and the student’s future occupational therapy practice. Students engage in reflective self-assessments to analyze their values, ethical perspectives, professional behaviors, knowledge, and skills, all essential for cultivating a professional identity. The course incorporates a variety of formats, including lectures, readings, discussions, and interactive learning activities such as role-playing.

This course explored the organization, development, and functions of the nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, immune, and lymphatic systems. It also covered musculoskeletal assessment techniques frequently used by occupational therapists in clinical practice. The course material was presented through experiential labs, seminars, and self-directed learning activities.

This course examined the characteristics and functional implications of major mental and physical health conditions encountered by occupational therapists when working with clients across the lifespan. It explored these conditions in relation to their impact on human development, body structures and functions, epidemiology, prognosis, associated mental and physical disabilities, and their influence on occupational engagement. The course also addressed pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, as well as relevant research. Cultural comparisons were included to highlight varying perceptions of mental health and physical conditions across cultures. Additionally, ethical considerations related to genetic testing and treatment for various disorders were discussed.

This course focuses on developing the “soft skills” essential for occupational therapy professionals, such as effective communication, flexibility, motivation, a positive attitude, and interpersonal skills. Through self-reflection and various assessments, students will explore their strengths, areas for growth, personal values, communication styles, and personality types. The course emphasizes documenting personal and professional growth through a portfolio, fostering continued learning and career development. Spanning four semesters, it culminates in the completion of an academic portfolio and the initiation of a professional development plan.

This course focused on the use of occupation in purposeful and meaningful ways to promote the health and well-being of individuals. It explored the professional heritage of occupation and the historical development of activity and task analysis as essential tools in occupational therapy across various clients and contexts. The course incorporated terminology and activity demands from the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, 4th Edition (AOTA, 2020) and covered activity synthesis, evaluation of activity demands, and assessment of individual activity preferences. Students practiced analyzing, adapting, and teaching activities through hands-on opportunities.