OPTA 1236: Professional Practice 1
Effective date
September 2025
Department
Occup/Physical Therapist Asst
Description
This course focuses on the knowledge and skills required by occupational therapy assistants (OTA) and physical therapy assistants (PTA) in the workplace. National competencies, professional associations and reflective practice are examined. Critical thinking and ethical decision making processes will also be addressed.
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain the role and responsibilities of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists and Canadian Physiotherapy Association to OTA and PTA practice.
- Describe how the OTA and PTA national practice standards and competencies inform practice.
- Use self reflection and goal setting to enhance learning and OTA and PTA practice.
- Describe ethical decision making processes in relation to OTA and PTA practice.
- Describe the steps involved in academic writing.
- Explain professional behaviour as it relates to OTA and PTA practice.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Total Hours: 30
Instructional Strategies
Instructional strategies may include: Lecture, seminar, on-line learning, assignments, problem-based learning, videos, small group discussions, student-led review sessions and guest speakers. Role rehearsals, reflective practice and in-class presentations will also be included.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Evaluation Plan
|
Type
|
Percentage
|
Assessment activity
|
|
Assignments
|
40-50
|
Assignments
|
|
Lab Work
|
40-50
|
Lab work
|
|
Participation
|
5
|
As per rubric
|
Course topics
- Literature searches
- Professional associations
- Professional competencies
- Ethics
- Self-reflection and goal setting
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/.
- To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.