HPD Perspectives Magazine Summer/Fall 2019

30 | DR. PALLAVI PATEL COLLEGE OF HEALTH CARE SCIENCES PROGRAM NEWS PROGRAM News Field Feedback Service Brings Case Studies to Life BY NARDIA ALDRIDGE, M.S., OTR/L, AND SARAH BLAYLOCK, PH.D., OTR/L Second-year Master of Occupational Therapy (OT) students engage in community service using case studies in their Adult Practice course. In groups of four, the students are responsible for contacting the assigned client and holding professional meetings with the individual throughout the semester. The students conduct full client evaluations as part of the assignment, including an occupational profile. They also select and implement assessments, develop short-term and long-term goals, and implement evidence-based and client-centered interventions. The consistent positive feedback from both students and clients illustrate the value of this assign- ment for preparing students to become client-centered and evidence-based therapists while serving the community. The students learned professionalism, as well as how to advocate for OT services and the benefits OT could have in a person’s life. This case-study experience highlights taking lessons learned in the classroom to providing service in the community. o