James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

GRADUATE DIPLOMA OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

The Graduate Diploma of Assistive Technology caters for non-engineering graduates working in the field of assistance to people with disabilities and the aged.

The objective of the course is to provide a firm background in the application and scope of engineering principles and technology to human study and rehabilitation. Subjects have been developed to offer a strong foundation in technology basics and then to provide the necessary extension into highly practical areas of learning and research.

Subjects will be modularised and offered in external mode using CD-Rom and World Wide Web delivery. There will be a requirement for students to attend two on-campus residentials, each of one week’s duration.

Subjects to be completed:

OT5101:03 Computers and Information Sources
OT5102:06 Research and Reporting in the Disability Field
OT5103:03 Overview of Technology for People with Disabilities
OT5104:03 Posture Control for Function
OT5105:06 Computing, Switches and Interfaces for People with Disabilities
OT5106:03 Augmentative and Electronic Communication Systems

MASTER OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

The objectives of this program are to provide grounding in specialist occupational therapy practice at an advanced level and/or the ability to undertake a substantial research project.

The Masters degree can be obtained through study of coursework, a major research project or a combination of both. In the case of the coursework option, this would potentially include advanced supervised placement in the occupational therapy field. For the research focused degree, the course would aim for a solid grounding in research through the conduct of field based research related to occupational therapy and associated allied health areas.

A pathway exists for students who have studied postgraduate subjects toward another degree (e.g. the Graduate Diploma of Assistive Technology) or who have gained considerable clinical experience to gain credit toward the Masters degree. Students may also be granted credit for approved subjects undertaken at other universities.

Six subjects are currently available specifically for the Master of Occupational Therapy coursework degree:

OT5001:03 Health Professional Independent Study
OT5002:06 Independent Project
OT5003:06 Minor Thesis
OT5004:06 Rural or Remote Allied Health Practice
OT5005:03 Advanced Clinical Practice
OT5006:03 Soft Tissue Injury Management for Health Professionals