Fieldwork
Welcome to University of Toronto Occupational Therapy Fieldwork
Fieldwork education is an exciting time, providing an opportunity to consolidate academic learning with clinical learning, develop skills in assessment and treatment, and develop professional behaviours. It gives students an understanding of the nature of occupational therapy practice in a variety of settings.
Fieldwork education is designed in such a way as to give students a broad range of experience and learning. Throughout the fieldwork experience students will work with clients across the lifespan and across the health care continuum in the areas of both psychosocial and physical health. This Fieldwork Manual is designed to provide details and assist in optimal clarity and consistency regarding occupational therapy fieldwork placements.
The Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy Department of the University of Toronto follows the Canadian Guidelines for Fieldwork Education in Occupational Therapy. This document is included in this manual for easy reference. This manual also includes information regarding professional standards as outlined by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists and the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario. Students are expected to know and follow these standards in addition to student-specific guidelines developed by the University of Toronto. Also contained in this manual is fieldwork administrative information regarding health policies such as immunization requirements, contracts and insurance, fieldwork requirements and selection process, pre-placement communication, fieldwork objectives, and fieldwork evaluation process.
Important Notes
Full-time placement will typically be conducted from Monday to Friday during regular business hours for a minimum of 37.5 hours a week. Students are encouraged to minimize other responsibilities and distractions, (e.g. outside jobs) during fieldwork in order to concentrate solely on fieldwork education and thus optimize the learning experience. It is important to note that students’ non-academic commitments may not be able to be accommodated during fieldwork placement blocks. While on fieldwork, students should expect to do preparatory work in the evenings in addition to regular fieldwork hours.
Also, students must be prepared to travel anywhere within the U of T catchment area (Lake Ontario to Newmarket, Whitby to Mississauga/Oakville) to attend a fieldwork placement.
All the best to each of you as you embark on the essential element of fieldwork education on your journey to become an Occupational Therapist!
Donna Barker |
Rachel Stack |
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Fieldwork Coordinator |
Fieldwork Coordinator |
