Developing innovative bachelor programs for occupational therapists in Germany: three different models (Health Care Professionals, AddIS and PQS)

Background: Only 5% of occupational therapists in Germany have an academic degree. In the light of the changing demography and subsequent demands on the health system there is a great need for therapists to obtain bachelor... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Only 5% of occupational therapists in Germany have an academic degree. In the light of the changing demography and subsequent demands on the health system there is a great need for therapists to obtain bachelor degrees.
Educational Philosophy or theory:
Interprofessional and interactive learning are key to all three programs, but especially the HCP. Blended learning is particularly used in the HCP program, and explores technical aspects for future care such as E-therapy and E-diagnostics.
Pedagogy / educational approach(es) used:
ASH is developing and/or offering three different kinds of bachelor programs: (i) Primary-Qualifying Program in occupational and physiotherapy for school leavers “PQS”, (ii) a part-time interdisciplinary program for occupational and physiotherapists “AddIS” and (iii) an online Bachelor program “Health Care Professionals” (HCP) for therapists and nurses.
Evaluation:
Different studies are being conducted depending on the different stages of development. The AddIS is an adaptation based the evaluation of a previous program, the PQS has recently presented an evaluation to the Berlin Senat as a model for possible alterations in the qualification of OTs and PTs, and the HCP is conducting needs analysis as a basis for its program development.
Application to Education and /or practice:
The advantages and disadvantages of the three types of bachelor programs, based on their evaluations, give indications and guidelines to other institutions that develop and/or offer similar programs in occupational therapy.