THE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PROGRAMME AT UMEÅ UNIVERSITY, REVISED

Background: How can we develop future occupational therapy (OT) students’ competencies to meet tomorrow’s society? This question gave rise to discussions on revising the OT curriculum at Umeå University about a decade... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
How can we develop future occupational therapy (OT) students’ competencies to meet tomorrow’s society? This question gave rise to discussions on revising the OT curriculum at Umeå University about a decade ago, and the development of the new programme commenced. The first batch of students in the revised program started in Fall term 2012 and graduated in Spring term 2015.

The purpose of this poster is to illustrate the revised occupational therapy programme at Umeå University, Sweden.

Educational Philosophy:
The development of the curriculum was grounded on the national goals stated in the Swedish Higher Education Ordinance and guidelines from ENOTHE, including TUNING competencies, and inspired by occupational justice and everyone’s right to meaningful activities. The programme focuses on progression in theory, research competencies and personal development towards occupational therapy professionalism.

Pedagogy / educational approaches used:
Learning within the programme is characterized by active knowledge acquisition, problem solving and reflection. Various learning strategies are employed throughout the entire programme. Examples of methods include individual, dyad and group work, practical exercises, case studies, interprofessional learning, seminars and lectures. Application of knowledge was required in special projects, promotion activities, clinical training, thesis work, community involvement and innovative practices.

Evaluation:
After the first class graduated, a visual representation of the revised occupational therapy programme was developed in order to emphasize on the progression in the education.

Application to Education:
Relevance in the educational goals can motivate students to actively engage in their learning and promote independent studies.