
Define dei and explain its importance in occupational therapy doctoral programs, and practice effective communication with clients from diverse backgrounds while analyzing the capstone topic through a swot framework.
Engage in a 14-week capstone experience at Drake University's occupational therapy program and building in Des Moines, Iowa, fostering relationships with OT faculty through a dedicated office space.
The capstone centers on education as the foundation for integrating DEI in higher education, preparing occupational therapy doctorate students to navigate diverse patients and apply inclusive treatment approaches.
Explore adult learner theory's five assumptions—self-concept, experience, readiness, orientation, and motivation—and how a survey and in-class co-curricular activities examine care of the person, environment, and task; capstone guiding approach.
conduct a needs assessment to boost dei in occupational therapy doctoral programs by destigmatizing dei, enriching materials, and embedding social, cultural, and environmental considerations into practice and curricula.
Advance professionalism, ethical conduct, and advocacy in occupational therapy by integrating DEI principles into curricula and presenting case studies on interracial dynamics and lived experiences to OT students.
Advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the occupational therapy program by hosting weekly lunch and learn sessions with Kotak. Topics include multicultural hair care, Muslim care, LGBTQ+ care, and disabilities.
Four slides outline the references gathered from literature review, and these references are embedded within the PowerPoints used for course artifacts.
This specialized course is tailored for educators, administrators, and students within Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) programs who aim to integrate and enhance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices within their curricula and institutional cultures. The course delves into the unique challenges and opportunities presented by DEI in healthcare education, particularly focusing on occupational therapy.
Participants will explore the importance of DEI in shaping effective and compassionate healthcare professionals who can serve diverse communities with sensitivity and competence. The curriculum includes a detailed examination of historical and systemic inequities that impact health outcomes and how these can be addressed through informed educational practices.
Through engaging multimedia content, guest lectures from DEI experts in healthcare, and interactive discussion forums, learners will examine case studies that highlight successful DEI implementations in OT programs. The course also emphasizes practical approaches to curriculum development, student engagement, and community collaboration to foster environments that value inclusivity and accessibility.
This course provides a vital platform for OTD stakeholders to critically analyze their current practices, develop strategic DEI goals, and implement changes that create more inclusive educational experiences. By the end of the course, participants will be better equipped to lead and advocate for meaningful DEI initiatives within their programs and professional practices.