Training occupational therapy students

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Bachelor's degree studies in occupational therapy at Haifa University, Tel Aviv University, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Ono Academic College, include four clinical practices as per the standards of the World Organization of occupational therapists (WFOT). The duration of each practice is extended according to the study year, while the last training is the longest and most profound one.  During the first year training is consisted of a few days of observation, during the second year training lasts 8 weeks, during the third year 9 weeks and during the fourth year training last 13 weeks.  Students in practical training must spend 30 hours a week at the institution. The aim of the various training periods is to enable gaining exposure and familiarity with the wide range of institutions, groups, individuals and therapies. Maale Hacarmel Mental Health Center employs a team of occupational therapists who are trained instructors, and who are assigned with students from Haifa University, Hebrew University and Tel Aviv University.

 

During the training period the students take part in all the professional activities that the staff members participate in, such as: Staff meetings, seminars, access to the professional library and to patients' records, in coordination with and under the supervision of the guide at the practical training site. The students are obliged to abide by the code of ethics of occupational therapists and the professional ethics rules and procedures practiced at the site.

 

The students undergo individual training and periodic evaluations as part of a formal process that links between the training process and the university. Students' requirements include submitting a written assignment at each one of the practical training periods. In addition to this assignment, another project is executed during the last practical training period, which forms a part of the study requirements at this stage. The project is conducted in coordination with the guide according to the needs of the institute and in consideration of the patients, and it is kept as a contribution to the treatment framework of occupational therapy. Fourth year students are expected to exhibit higher level of integration of theoretical knowledge with therapeutic activity. The long duration of the training process allows for greater and deeper clinical experience.

 

In conclusion, the students are an important and significant contribution to the daily work with the patients. This experience provides them with a learning experience and contributes to their molding as future professionals.

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