Sensory Processing in the Classroom and University Settings

This course covers research and program development in regard to the topic of sensory processing disorder and its impact on student’s ability to participate within an academic setting. Information covered in this course was completed as an occupational therapy doctoral program capstone experience with an overarching goal to increase understanding of the affects sensory processing disorders have on student’s ability to learn and participate within the classroom as well as to expand their knowledge of the benefits sensory interventions have on a student’s ability to perform academically and socially as well as to provide tools and strategies for students with sensory processing deficits in the classroom. This course covers the relevant, current research to demonstrate need for program development within this topic area and discusses the relevance of this topic to the field of occupational therapy as well as to society. This course also walks through the development of the overarching goals of this doctoral capstone project as well as how completed work throughout this experience addressed not only the overarching goals of the project but, also Drake University curricular themes and occupational therapy doctoral program standards. Following completion of this course participants will understand the impact of sensory process deficits on student’s academic and social participation. They will be able to explain why occupational therapists are best equipped to address sensory processing deficits in the classroom. They will also learn about teacher/educator perception of sensory processing disorders and interventions as well as will be able to identify several interventions that can be implemented within the classroom and university settings.