This course is designed to provide current Occupational Therapy Assistant students with individual and small group re-demonstration of basic and advanced therapeutic skills. Supervised practice is available on a recurring, as needed, and/or drop-in basis to improve student's performance levels and increase retention and success outcomes. This course is offered on a pass/no pass basis only. This is a no fee/no credit course.

The philosophical base, definition and history of occupational therapy are examined. Through an historical approach, frames of reference and models of practice within the profession are reviewed. Occupation as a health determinant is emphasized. The meaning of professionalism is examined. A broad range of practice areas is investigated. Various systems and service models are described. Ethics of the profession and standards of practice are examined and applied to practice situations. Legislation and legal issues affecting the profession are reviewed. (CSU)

Through experiential learning, students will explore and develop skills in performing processes required in minor crafts, gross motor activities, games and simple work tasks. The focus of OT in daily life activities is reviewed. Emphasis is on activity analysis and adaptation from the perspective of work and play/leisure tasks throughout the life span, and addresses physical, psychosocial and cognitive needs. Safety in the use of therapeutic activities is emphasized. Students will learn to teach techniques in applying therapeutic media to a group. (CSU)

A comprehensive course that is designed to offer students proficiency in the use of terminology utilized in a variety of rehabilitation settings. Basic medical terminology will be incorporated including prefixes, roots and suffixes. This course will include an in-depth study of common diseases and diagnoses found in rehabilitation. Occupational therapy databases, sites and resources will be explored via the internet. (CSU)

Through experiential learning, students will explore and develop skills in performing processes required in minor crafts, gross motor activities, Innovation technology (3D Printer, Glowforge, etc) games and simple work tasks. The focus of OT in daily life activities is reviewed. Emphasis is on the use of the occupational therapy practice framework (OTPF) to perform activity analysis and adaptation from the perspective of work and play/leisure tasks throughout the lifespan, and addresses physical, psychosocial and cognitive needs. Safety in the use of therapeutic activities is emphasized. Students will learn to teach techniques in applying therapeutic media to a group. Students will also be introduced to documentation techniques using the OTPF. (CSU)

This course is designed to provide students entering the Occupational Therapy Assistant program with the necessary preliminary preparation to attend lectures, laboratory, and clinical courses. Students will be required to access library resources in preparation for writing evidence-based, peer-reviewed research papers in the English language about common diagnoses and will begin to review lists of medical terminology, body systems, and their joints/muscles/movements. Students will review criteria for professionalism and will become familiar with OT professional organizations. Students can obtain assistance with completing and submitting forms, on a recurring, as needed, and/or drop-in basis. Students will be provided information about the college's resources, including financial aid, Accommodation Resource Center, Tutoring, and basic needs. Students will be required to meet with Student Success Advisors to improve student's performance levels and increase retention and success outcomes in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program. (CSU)

Interpersonal communication is explored and practiced on many different levels including: didactic communication, group process, teamwork, supervision, and collaboration. Occupational Therapy models of practice in psychiatry and psychiatric conditions and treatment approaches are examined. Techniques for intervention are observed and practiced such as: interviewing, clinical observation, documentation, and communication. Group tasks, roles, stages, and processes are examined. (CSU)

Experiential/Simulation I is designed to acquaint the student with the day to day activities in the clinical setting for individuals with psychosocial issues that interfere with occupations and roles and enable them to select within the broad arena of Occupational Therapy. This experience enables students to apply academic knowledge to practice and develop an understanding of the needs of clients, setting and staff. (CSU)

The structure and organization of the human body are examined and analyzed in relation to functional movements required for work, play and self-care activities. Occupational therapy theory for treating persons who have physical disabilities is reviewed with special attention to neurological and musculoskeletal systems. Physical conditions typically seen by the occupational therapy assistant are defined and examined. Functional manual muscle testing, goniometry, and sensory perception testing are learned and practiced. Principles of kinesiology are presented in relation to functional mobility, body mechanics, energy conservation and joint protection. (CSU)

This course introduces students to the fundamental professional and personal responsibilities of an occupational therapy assistant. Emphasizing the development of a professional identity, students will explore topics such as therapeutic use of self, professional behaviors, and effective communication skills. The course also covers self-care strategies and time management to promote personal well-being. Through lectures, discussions, and practical activities, students will gain an understanding of the core values and expectations in the field of occupational therapy, preparing them to navigate their academic and professional journeys successfully. (CSU)

Record keeping for accountability and reimbursement is examined. Emphasis is placed on learning the structure and function of daily note writing. Patient/client evaluation techniques including data gathering, reassessment, treatment recommendations, and treatment termination are presented. Students learn to write behavioral objectives and assist the OT with goal writing. Techniques of quality assurance are introduced. Insurance systems and various methods for documentation are explored. The ethics of documentation are examined. Medical terminology is emphasized. Students will practice documentation for different practice settings (e.g. psychiatry, physical dysfunction). (CSU)

Individual and group interactions related to occupational therapy intervention are examined. Theories of practice that explain interpersonal behavior from an occupational therapy perspective and psychiatric conditions treated by the occupational therapy assistant are reviewed. The therapeutic use of self and collaboration with the registered occupational therapist and other healthcare professionals with an emphasis on team work is investigated. Interviewing, observation, communication, individual interventions, group process skills, and documentation with an emphasis on cultural differences are introduced, discussed, and practiced. Group roles and stages are examined. The differences between task groups and talk groups are analyzed. (CSU)

The structure and organization of the human body are examined and analyzed in relation to functional movements required for work, play and self-care activities. Occupational therapy theory for treating the physically disabled is reviewed with special attention to neurological and musculoskeletal systems. Physical conditions typically seen by the occupational therapist are defined and examined. Functional manual muscle testing, goniometry, and sensory perception testing are learned and practiced. Principles of kinesiology are presented in relation to functional mobility, body mechanics, energy conservation and joint protection. (CSU)

This course examines the biological, psychosocial, and environmental factors that influence typical development and developmental challenges in a child's roles from infancy to early adulthood. Adaptation and adjustment to limitations in occupational performance are explored. The role of the occupational therapy assistant in prevention and rehabilitation programs within medical and community settings such as hospitals, infant programs, schools, and private practice is defined. Evaluation, and treatment techniques, and documentation are examined including activities that facilitate age-appropriate balance of work, self-care and play/leisure behaviors. The underlying performance components necessary for successful occupational behaviors are presented. Emphasis is placed on collaboration with families, caregivers, teachers, and other members of the treatment team. (CSU)

A laboratory experience that includes observing and identifying normal and abnormal developmental behaviors in the pediatric population. This course builds on previous introduction practicum experience and is designed to reinforce and augment understanding of principles and techniques for observing, assessing, planning and implementing occupational therapy treatment sessions with pediatric clients. (CSU)

The knowledge and application of assistive devices are fundamental in the practice of occupational therapy across diagnostic categories and age groups. This course presents an introduction to a broad range of equipment from "low-technology" to complex "high-technology" devices. Topics include: adaptive equipment for activities of daily living, home modifications, personal mobility, and adapted driving, computer accessibility, and communication aides. The environments in which assistive technologies are used will be explored including home, school, work, play and recreation. The populations with whom assistive technology can be used across the lifespan. (CSU)

The normal occupational performance in development of adult and geriatric roles is explored. The physical, socioeconomic, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and physical factors that influence adult and geriatric occupational performance in their roles. Exploration of the recovery process, from acute care to rehabilitation for physical and psychosocial conditions, is reviewed. The role of the occupational therapy assistant in prevention and rehabilitation programs is defined. Involvement in assessment, intervention, and therapeutic activities that facilitate age appropriate occupational behaviors is practiced. The discharge process and collaboration with other professionals and community agencies is included as part of the treatment continuum. (CSU)

This course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to apply evidence-based practice (EBP) principles in occupational therapy. Students will learn to critically appraise research literature, integrate clinical evidence with practitioner expertise, and consider client preferences to inform effective intervention strategies. Students will explore this process through the application of these skills to several case-based scenarios. Upon completion of the course, students will develop the ability to make informed, evidence-based decisions that enhance client outcomes and support best practices in occupational therapy. (CSU)

The knowledge and application of assistive devices are fundamental in the practice of occupational therapy across diagnostic categories and age groups. This course presents an introduction to a broad range of equipment from "low-technology" to complex "high-technology" devices involving micro-electronics. Topics include: adapted equipment for activities of daily living, home modifications, personal mobility and adapted driving, computer accessibility, communication aides. The environments in which assistive technologies are used will be explored including home, school, work, play and recreation. (CSU)

This course is the second in a series focusing on intervention strategies for individuals who have physical conditions with a focus on neurological and medical conditions. Building on foundational knowledge, students will apply advanced concepts of anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation techniques to develop and modify treatment plans for clients with complex physical disabilities. Emphasis is placed on enhancing clinical reasoning, conducting comprehensive functional assessments, and utilizing specialized therapeutic techniques such as manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education, and assistive technology. Students will integrate client-centered approaches that address psychosocial and environmental factors while applying ethical decision-making in complex clinical scenarios. Collaboration within an interdisciplinary healthcare team will be emphasized to support effective discharge planning and community reintegration. (CSU)

A laboratory course providing a continuation of experiential/simulation learning with a focus on treatment planning, safety precautions, contraindications and documentation in OTA Program affiliated adult and geriatric rehabilitation settings. (CSU)

Occupational Therapy Management explores the operations of an occupational therapy department. This course presents an introduction to basic management issues including: clerical, organizational, fiscal and supervisory components. Topics relate to traditional and nontraditional settings where occupational therapy assistants may be employed. Legal and ethical issues are explored. Quality assurance, research and continuing education to support continued professional growth are emphasized. Techniques for developing a resume, participating in an interview and requirements to practice are discussed and practiced. Practice opportunities in community based programs will be explored. (CSU)

This course is designed for occupational therapy assistants and/or recent graduates of occupational therapy assistant programs who intend to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification examination. This course will include a review of kinesiology concepts and measurements, theories and frames of reference, the practice framework, code of ethics issues, clinical case studies and treatment interventions, modalities, splinting, management issues and practice areas. (CSU)

This experience involves a ten week assignment for 40 hours per week of clinical experience under the direct supervision of a registered occupational therapist or a certified occupational therapy assistant. The student will assist in all phases of practice including observation, evaluation, treatment and documentation. This course must be successfully completed in order to continue on with Occupational Therapy Assistant 241, Clinical Practicum V. This course is offered on a Pass/No Pass basis only. (CSU)

This experience involves a ten-week assignment with each week being a full time work week of clinical experience under the direct supervision of a registered occupational therapist or a certified occupational therapy assistant. The student will assist in all phases of practice including observation, evaluation, treatment and documentation. Successful completion of this course is necessary for the student to be eligible to sit for the national certification examination. This course is offered on a Pass/No Pass basis only. (CSU)