Event Title
Generational competence in occupational therapy education
Location
Terry
Format
Podium Presentation
Start Date
26-1-2013 11:45 AM
End Date
26-1-2013 12:15 PM
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Four generations exist in the occupational therapy workforce (AOTA, 2010). Generational characteristics vary and are a function of population size, political events, technology, and socioeconomic conditions. Generational competence, defined as increased consideration of generational characteristics on behavior and thinking, can maximize the effectiveness of client interactions and improve professional relationships.
PURPOSE: This study sought to determine the impact of educational intervention on the knowledge of generational characteristics in two cohorts of MOT students. It is hypothesized that educational intervention would increase the MOT students’ awareness and knowledge of generational differences
METHODOLOGY: A 20 question pretest/posttest was developed from content in the literature and reviewed by OT faculty for content validity. The pretest occurred prior to educational content including a PowerPoint presentation, online article, and discussion. Educational effectiveness will be determined by a paired sample t test comparing pre-test and post-test student scores. Independent samples t test will compare the two cohorts’ results and cohorts’ calculated change variable.
RESULTS: Only one cohort (58 Year 1 students) has completed the educational session and testing. Another cohort (45 year 2 students) will participate in January. Results available at conference.
CONCLUSIONS: Elements of generational competence are essential to best practice in occupational therapy as different generational cohorts enter the healthcare environment. These generational cohorts have different beliefs, values, work ethics, communication styles, technology skills, and learning preferences. Understanding these differences may prevent workplace conflicts and enable therapists to more effectively treat clients of various ages.
Generational competence in occupational therapy education
Terry
INTRODUCTION: Four generations exist in the occupational therapy workforce (AOTA, 2010). Generational characteristics vary and are a function of population size, political events, technology, and socioeconomic conditions. Generational competence, defined as increased consideration of generational characteristics on behavior and thinking, can maximize the effectiveness of client interactions and improve professional relationships.
PURPOSE: This study sought to determine the impact of educational intervention on the knowledge of generational characteristics in two cohorts of MOT students. It is hypothesized that educational intervention would increase the MOT students’ awareness and knowledge of generational differences
METHODOLOGY: A 20 question pretest/posttest was developed from content in the literature and reviewed by OT faculty for content validity. The pretest occurred prior to educational content including a PowerPoint presentation, online article, and discussion. Educational effectiveness will be determined by a paired sample t test comparing pre-test and post-test student scores. Independent samples t test will compare the two cohorts’ results and cohorts’ calculated change variable.
RESULTS: Only one cohort (58 Year 1 students) has completed the educational session and testing. Another cohort (45 year 2 students) will participate in January. Results available at conference.
CONCLUSIONS: Elements of generational competence are essential to best practice in occupational therapy as different generational cohorts enter the healthcare environment. These generational cohorts have different beliefs, values, work ethics, communication styles, technology skills, and learning preferences. Understanding these differences may prevent workplace conflicts and enable therapists to more effectively treat clients of various ages.
