OTS105 — Fieldwork Education I
The 2018 ACOTE Standards describe the role of Level I fieldwork “to introduce students to fieldwork, apply knowledge to practice, and develop understanding of the needs of clients.” Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) students will rotate through three 1-week fieldwork practice environments under the supervision of various professionals as specified under the ACOTE OTA Standards. Level I fieldwork provides the OTA student with exposure to healthcare practice through directed observation and limited participation in selected aspects of the occupational therapy process. It is not intended to develop independent performance, rather to enrich academic learning. Each student is expected to develop and demonstrate skills in professionalism and communication. These skills include, but are not limited to: interviewing, effective gathering and organizing of information, examining personal reactions to individuals with disabilities, professionals, staff, practice environments, and observing the roles and functions of healthcare provision. The focus of the learning experience includes active observation, professional communication (written, verbal and non- verbal), and professional behaviors including OT ethics, values, and individual and group participation with individuals receiving health care services. Students will begin to experience relationships with other healthcare practitioners and the individuals they serve.
Prerequisites: OTS103, OTS104, OTS122