Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0008-1943-9650

Semester

Spring

Date of Graduation

2025

Document Type

Problem/Project Report

Degree Type

OTD

College

School of Medicine

Department

Occupational Therapy

Committee Chair

Diana Davis

Committee Co-Chair

Breanna Adkins

Committee Member

Kayleigh Nolan

Committee Member

Heather Livengood

Abstract

Current literature highlights the importance of utilizing practical examinations and actual patients and covering vast pediatric content within occupational therapy curricula. The needs assessment conducted within The West Virginia University Division of Occupational Therapy revealed that the division currently employs all three of these factors within their curriculum, however a gap presented in the combination of these three factors together. This project aimed to diminish this gap through the development, implementation, and execution of a pediatric practical examination, utilizing actual pediatric patients, to determine whether the examination is effective in increasing student perceived competence and confidence in working with pediatric populations. The project utilized 32 student participants, all of which completed the practical examinations within a 4-week span. Results collected from pre-test and post-test surveys indicated a statistically significant increase in perceived confidence/competence scores, with students perceiving the examination to be a beneficial experience.

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