Experiential Learning in Pediatric Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy: Outcomes for Occupational Therapy Students

Effective training is essential in occupational therapy (OT) programs to prepare students to implement evidence-based interventions. This study examined the impact of experiential learning on OT students' knowledge, confidence, and perceptions related to pediatric constraint-induced movement therapy (P-CIMT).

A mixed-methods pre-test/post-test design evaluated changes in students' perceptions of P-CIMT, as well as their self-reported knowledge and confidence in implementing it.

Graduate OT students (n=44) who participated in a P-CIMT experiential learning program.

An experiential learning program focused on P-CIMT.

Students completed the Intensive Upper Limb Training Experiential Survey before and after the program. The survey included short-answer, multiple-choice, and Likert-style questions to assess time invest¬ment, perceptions of P-CIMT, self-reported knowledge and confidence, and feedback on the experience.

University-based program.

Students demonstrated significantly greater knowledge and confidence in implementing P-CIMT (p<0.05), along with improved perceptions of its importance. Participants valued the experience and expressed interest in more hands-on learning opportunities.

Experiential learning meaningfully enhanced students' understanding and confidence in applying P-CIMT. With evidence supporting experiential learning as a positive opportunity for OT students, OT programs should consider incorporating similar learning opportunities focused on evidenced-based interventions to equip students with the necessary experience and knowledge to become evidence-based practitioners.