OPTA 1353: Professional Practice 2 - Practicum Preparation
Effective date
September 2025
Department
Occup/Physical Therapist Asst
Description
This course focuses on preparing occupational therapist assistant (OTA) and physical therapist assistant (PTA) students for their initial practicum experience by guiding them in developing personal learning objectives. It emphasizes key job-related skills such as workload measurement and clinical documentation. Students will enhance their ability to navigate advanced ethical dilemmas through problem-based learning (PBL).
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Create written documentation using selected systems and record keeping forms in a clinical setting.
- Analyze workload measurement for occupational therapist assistant and physical therapist assistant practice.
- Development an electronic portfolio, showcasing academic achievements, reflective thinking, professional growth and self-awareness.
- Describe professional responsibility with respect to cultural diversity and inclusivity of clients.
- Apply an ethical decision making process to determine actions for ethical dilemmas in OTA and PTA practice.
- Demonstrate professional responsibilities for practice in specific health care agencies.
- Demonstrate beginning understanding of the role of the OTA and PTA in community practice settings.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 15
Total Hours: 15
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)
Passing grade
B- (68%) in both written and practical components of course
Evaluation Plan
|
Type
|
Percentage
|
Assessment activity
|
|
Assignments
|
60-75
|
Assignments
|
|
Lab Work
|
30-45
|
Lab work
|
|
Participation
|
5
|
As per rubric
|
Course topics
- Documentation
- Workload measurement
- Practicum specific requirements
- Ethics
- Electronic Portfolios
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.