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Establishing a practice climate in academic settings
Suzanne M Peloquin1, Karen A Osborne
1Occupational Therapy Department, School of Allied Health Sciences, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77551-1028, USA. speloqui@utmb.edu
Journal of Allied Health
|June 13, 2003
Summary
This study introduces a practice climate educational approach for occupational therapy students. This method, positively received by students, can enhance learning in allied health education.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Therapy Education
- Allied Health Pedagogy
Background:
- Traditional educational methods may not fully engage students in larger classroom settings.
- There is a need for innovative teaching strategies in allied health professions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an innovative educational approach called 'practice climate' in occupational therapy.
- To explore the rationale, strategies, and student assessment of this approach.
Main Methods:
- Development and implementation of a 'practice climate' in an undergraduate occupational therapy course.
- Review of educational literature from other disciplines to assess broader applicability.
- Student assessment of the educational approach through two undergraduate groups.
Main Results:
- The 'practice climate' approach was favorably assessed by occupational therapy students.
- The approach is considered potentially useful for most allied health educators.
- Nine process strategies were identified for establishing a practice climate.
Conclusions:
- The 'practice climate' educational approach is effective in occupational therapy programs.
- This innovative teaching strategy has potential for broader application across allied health education.
- The approach is suitable for various academic levels, from undergraduate to graduate education.