A Placement replacement module developed through COVID-19: incorporating spiral learning, case-based learning and simulated pedagogical approaches

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic changed life across the world at an unprecedented speed, in ways that were unimaginable prior to March 2020. As ‘new normals’ emerge, the impact on everyday life is being realized and some rapid innovations are worthy of review and retaining, such as an occupational therapy student virtual Placement Replacement Module (PRM). The occupational therapy specific module was developed to replace prohibited face-to-face, practice-based education. It was designed to support the consolidation of professional knowledge and facilitate the application of practice-based skills, crediting the students with 120 practice placement hours, as agreed with the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT). This education innovation, based on a spiral learning approach, delivered over five weeks enabled 30 first year students to engage in a range of on-line placement related activities, incorporating the use of reflective diaries, case-based learning, and simulated practice. The evaluation of student feedback showed that authentic learning activities, immersive feedback, and the opportunity for shared learning can facilitate the consolidation of academic knowledge. In particular, it can help develop professional and therapeutic communication skills and clinical and professional reasoning and build personal and professional confidence. As this is believed to be the first PRM of its kind, the purpose of this paper is to describe the education innovation and share the outcomes that resulted from the student evaluation. Other Higher Education Institutions (HEI) are encouraged to think how similar on-line modules could replace face-to-face occupational therapy placements or be included in knowledge consolidation and preparation for placement.<br/

A qualitative synthesis exploring the potential role for mental health occupational therapists working with patients in seclusion

Despite guidance to minimize restrictive practice within the UK, seclusion and long-term segregation are necessary to maintain the safety of patients and clinicians. There is little evidence to guide the work of occupational therapists with secluded patients. A literature search identified seven papers that met the study inclusion criteria. A deductive approach to thematic analysis was conducted using the ‘Model of Human Occupation’ as a theoretical framework to identify issues related to occupational need during a period of seclusion. Findings indicate ways in which occupational therapists could engage with patients in seclusion and suggest a need for future research.</p

A Qualitative Study Exploring the Causes of Boredom for Men with a Psychosis in a Forensic Setting

Boredom is a problem in forensic mental health settings, and is believed to increase levels of violence and be detrimental to health and recovery. Eight men in a forensic unit, all with a psychotic disorder, were interviewed regarding their experiences of boredom. A thematic analysis was used to identify emergent themes. These included: Mental health and motivation; Restrictive environment; Responsibilities; and Nothing to do. These findings provide a greater understanding of factors which may contribute to boredom within forensic settings and can guide occupational therapy interventions to address them