I noticed something we had discussed the week before Very good to have learning backed continuously be experience-the best way to learn Other units taught in second year also benefit. Observation of clinical conditions and their effects on function enhance the integration of materials taught in clinical medicine and anatomy and kinesiology. The unit raises awareness of cultural, social and environmental influences on quality of life experiences. Students begin to develop personal beliefs regarding practice philosophies and ethical issues related to clinical reasoning. Semi structured interviews conducted with fieldwork coordinators indicate that overall students display contrasting characteristics to previous students who had completed the fieldwork placements.
Students are more comfortable with less direct supervision by the occupational therapist.
Much more enquiring than other students in 3rd or 4th year where they tend to follow the therapist. Students challenge therapists by initiating discussion on discrepancies between their theory and practice. They are more enquiring, display a more critical approach to their experience, question what they see. Students relate to residents and staff in the setting with a strong awareness of ethical behaviour, in particular the issue of dignity for older people. Students' attitude to further practicums in an aged care is enhanced.