4 Potential Independent Student Activities

Along with providing “hands on” client interventions, there should be opportunities for independent activities that will enhance the student’s learning. These activities can be planned by the student and should be discussed with the onsite supervisor and offsite clinical instructor. These activities are considered part of the normal placement hours. The following list are suggested independent activities the students may work on when not working directly with clients:

• Reviewing client charts and researching about the client’s diagnosis. Preparing for sessions and working on documentation related to client activities.
• Preparing educational materials to add to consultation service (e.g. handouts for client recommendations)
• Clinical observations with other health professionals on site
• Creating resource lists relevant to practice area
• Researching clinical services available to clientele in the area (e.g. where clients can receive direct occupational therapy intervention if needed)
• Researching and creating resources for placement site (e.g. brochures, visual materials, treatment resources)
• In-service preparation for staff: client case studies, general strategies and accommodations for client’s to participate in programming in a different way