Supporting Student Self-Directed Learning: A Sensory Integration Equipment Manual for Occupational Therapy Students at Dominican University of California
Graduation Date
2007
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy
Department
Occupational Therapy
Department or Program Chair
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Thesis Advisor
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Second Advisor
Stacy Frauwirth, MS, OTR/L
Abstract
Sensory integration is widely used in occupational therapy as a basis lor evaluation and treatment in children and adults with a variety of disabilities. Equipment use is essential in sensory integration treatment. Dominican University of California occupational therapy students are encouraged to use sensory integration equipment and materials in fieldwork assignments. A laboratory equipped with a variety of such materials is available for student use. However, due to space limitations, some specialized sensory integration equipment, such as suspension swings, is not accessible to students for use on a regular basis. Therefore, a sensory integration equipment manual depicting and describing sensory equipment commonly used in sensory treatment approaches was developed by this author.
The manual was intended to be a supplemental educational tool and resource to enhance the learning environment and support occupational therapy students in self- directed learning about a widely used and effective treatment approach. The manual depicts and describes specialized sensory integration equipment through photographs and descriptions of how the equipment is commonly used to provide sensory input during treatment. Ideas on alternative therapeutic equipment options are suggested. Catalogs and website resources used for the development of the manual are listed for further exploration.
Having access to a wide range of learning resources, such as a sensory integration equipment manual, is one way students may be supported in self-directed learning. Also, by developing prior knowledge through increased familiarity with different types of specialized sensory equipment and increased understanding of equipment purpose, occupational therapy students may be better prepared for pediatric clinical experiences incorporating sensory treatment approaches.