In this unit you will be introduced to professional reasoning, evidence based and culturally sensitive practice for occupational therapy in the paediatric context from birth to middle childhood. You will learn to plan occupational therapy evaluations, measurable goals and interventions for children, applying an occupational therapy practice process, evidence based frames of reference and occupational therapy practice models. You will explore key elements of realistic occupational therapy service delivery, using case studies of children with a range of impairments and occupational profiles. You will be coached to take part in interprofessional case discussions that simulate collaboration in a paediatric allied health team. Specific paediatric skills and knowledge will be enhanced through work integrated learning within the term, during which you will gain practical experience working with children.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from SUTE comments Teaching team observations

With the conversion of the portfolio into a two-part assessment item, the need for further restructuring of content to better prepare students was identified.

It is recommended that unit content and flow be further reviewed to ensure it meets the learning needs for each assessment item.

Feedback from SUTE comments Informal student feedback

The opportunity to practice clinical skills with children, as well as the real world examples provided by educators and the clinical simulation exercises all assisted students to practically apply their knowledge.

It is recommended that authentic learning experiences (e.g., clinical assessment intensive, infant handling simulation, interprofessional education) continue to be included in the unit.