The following information is provided for each course: course name and number, course description, and number of credit hours. Courses are offered in weekend format unless otherwise indicated. All courses are 3 credit hours. The University of Indianapolis reserves the right to change, without notice, statements about courses, instructors, or other matters.
Professional Core Courses
Administrative Track
Neuroscience Track
Psychosocial Courses
Orthopedic Track
Practica
OTPP 500 Clinical Reasoning
Clinical reasoning of occupational therapists is examined as part of the whole
therapeutic process from initial evaluation to discharge. A framework is
developed, enabling students to utilize the language of clinical reasoning
in studying their own clinical practice. Issues of clinical reasoning are
addressed involving: existing theories, need for research, implications for
improving clinical practice, and possible strategies for clinical education
and continuing education.
OTPP 501 Research Methodology
Students learn the fundamentals of quantitative research enabling abilities
to critique research and evaluate usefulness of information in designing
clinical programs. Students formulate a research proposal involving the following
skills: identifying a research problem for study, reviewing the research
literature, designing the study, collecting data, analyzing data with statistical
techniques, and formulating relevant conclusions. (PTPP 539 Clinical Research
in the Health Sciences may substitute)
OTPP 502 Qualitative Research Methodology
Students learn the fundamentals of qualitative research enabling abilities
to critique qualitative studies and incorporate appropriate information into
clinical program development. A variety of qualitative research design strategies
and methods of data analyses are taught including: grounded theory, ethnography,
phenomenology, and action research. Students will design & implement
a small qualitative research project.
OTPP 504 Cultural Aspects of Occupation
The influence of culture upon occupational roles and performances is examined.
Subcultures likely to impact occupational therapy practice are studied, noting
the differences among values and interests related to occupational behavior.
Methods of examining cultures and developing awareness of cultural influences
are taught. (ANTH 500 Colloquium in Cultural Anthropology may substitute)
OTPP 505 Basics of Writing and Research
Students experiencing problems in writing papers for other assigned classes
should consider taking this course. Students desiring to learn how to submit
for publication in recognized journals will find this course invaluable.
(Additional selected courses available through the PT MHS Program. Permission
from OT Programs required )
OTPP 510 Advanced Sensory Integration
Current sensory integrative theory development and research is the focus with
opportunities to analyze the latest standardized evaluations and assessment
tools. Intervention techniques and strategies are discussed for all age groups,
including adult and geriatric populations with a variety of physical and
psychiatric conditions.
OTPP 511 Cognitive Rehabilitation
Update of cognitive rehabilitation principles and theories is provided, emphasizing
the latest research in information processing. Standardized cognitive assessment
instruments are analyzed with a focus upon dynamic testing theory and implications
for occupational therapy functional assessment. A variety of diagnoses with
resulting cognitive impairments are discussed in terms of intervention for
persons with VA, TBI, Alzheimer's, Schizophrenia, substance abuse, etc. Use
of the computer in treatment and review of cognitive rehabilitation software
is included.
OTPP 512 Neuroscience
This course discusses basic structural and functional concepts related to the
study of the nervous system and the neuronal processes of receiving, integrating,
interpreting, and responding to stimulation. Clinical evaluation of and intervention
for occupational dysfunctions secondary to impairments created by pathology
of the central and peripheral nervous systems are considered.
OTPP 514 Pain Management
Updated techniques in pain management are analyzed including the use of biofeedback
methods, relaxation techniques and stress management, therapeutic modalities,
occupational adaptations or modifications, and psychosocial approaches. Theories
of pain, and evaluation methods and intervention principles are discussed
for persons with a variety of central and peripheral nervous system disorders,
musculoskeletal problems, and psychiatric conditions.
OTPP 515 Topical Seminar/Neuroscience
Special offerings relevant for the evaluation and intervention for clients
with neurological impairments. Course is dependent upon the availability
of faculty and student interest. Guest lecturers may be used.
OTPP 516 Intermediate Sensory Integration
Current sensory integration theory will be examined in relation to evaluation
and intervention of sensory motor disorders throughout the lifespan. This
course will include a complete review of neuroanatomy and the neurological
basis of sensory integration.
OTPP 517 PNF
This course explores the theoretical basis of proprioceptive neuromuscular
facilitation as developed by Knott and Voss. Implications for evaluations
and intervention for neurological disorders throughout the life span in current
occupational therapy practice will be discussed.
OTPP 518 Autism and Occupational Therapy Practice
The purpose of this course is to increase therapist understanding of sensory
integrative problems in the autistic population. This course will provide
the therapist with strategies for clinical evaluation and intervention of
sensory modulation and discrimination problems in autistic children. Therapists
will learn various home and school accommodations for sensory integration
problems. In addition, it will provide the experienced practitioner with
evaluation and intervention techniques that address deficits in postural
and visual functioning that can impede a child's ability to benefit from
sensory integrative intervention. Videotape case presentations and hands-on
experience will be used to reinforce learning.
OTPP 519 Theories of Motor Control
This course will describe contemporary theories of motor control that form
the basis of intervention strategies for the child and adult with physical
impairments, activity limitation and participation restrictions. It will
introduce, compare and contrast neurophysiological theories, systems theory,
ecologically based perceptual theory and motor learning theories. These theoretical
approaches will then be applied to the areas of posture and balance, mobility
functions, and upper extremity control. Students will be required to take
a pretest prior to arrival at the course. Case summaries provided by students
will provide the basis for discussion and theories will be applied to reviewing
student cases to illustrate the application of theoretical tenets.
OTPP 523 Advanced Biomechanical Theory of Occupations
Biomechanical theory is utilized to analyze a variety of occupational performances.
Methods of measuring forces resulting from occupational demands are taught.
Pathomechanics related to dysfunctional occupational performances and/or
underlying pathology are examined. Intervention strategies are developed
that have potential of modifying or applying correcting biomechanical forces.
OTPP 526 Myofascial Techniques in OT
This course covers the essentials of myofascial manipulation for the upper
extremity. The underlying principles of myofascial manipulation and the basic
science behind the technique will provide the foundation for the laboratory
portion of the course. The lab portion of the course will consist of practical
hands on application of myofascial techniques to the upper extremity from
the shoulder to the hand. Cervical technique will be introduced. The course
is approximately 50% didactic and 50% lab.
OTPP 532 Motivational Strategies to Promote Change in Substance Abuse
The role of the occupational therapist in evaluating and providing intervention
for persons with addictions is examined. The major concepts and theories
of substance abuse are presented along with an overview of the prevalence
and the effects of addiction upon society. Occupational therapy frames of
reference and intervention methods are studied, with emphasis upon current
research and trends.
OTPP 557 Visual Perceptual Treatment: Co-managing with Behavioral Optometrists
This course examines anatomic and physiologic processes related to vision and
perception; the effects of visual disorders on areas of occupational performance;
evaluation and intervention procedures for visual perceptual deficits, including
but not limited to, spatial awareness, visual scanning, visual attention,
visual fields, etc.
OTPP 559 Introduction to Seating and Positioning
This course will cover the essentials of wheelchair seating and mobility through
lecture, discussion, observation, and hands-on experiences. The principles
of seating for working with individuals from infancy through geriatrics having
various diagnoses ranging from cerebral palsy, spina bifida, SCI, TBI, multiple
sclerosis, stroke, and others will be discussed. Topics will include description
of the team members, completion of an evaluation, simple fabrication, funding,
power mobility, and outcomes. Case studies will be used to demonstrate final
fitting and equipment chosen by the individuals and the team. (Additional
selected courses available through the PT MHS Program. Permission from OT
Programs required.)
OTPP 611 Health Promotion and Occupation
This course outlines and defines the role of occupation in health and wellness;
a role based on theories of humans as occupational beings. The premise that
engaging in occupation is a central mechanism of health is examined. In addition
to the major theme of health involving an occupational perspective, occupational
risk factors and negative effects of occupational alienation, deprivation,
and imbalance are explored. The potential of occupational therapy to contribute
to public health is delineated. Developing new environments for occupational
therapy practice via health and wellness model will be examined including
community health, public health, non-traditional medicine, as well as other
emerging practice areas.
OTPP 612 Early Childhood Development
This course will provide a comprehensive review of early childhood development
including motor, cognitive and social development within the contextual supports
of the child.
OTPP 514 Pain Management
Updated techniques in pain management are analyzed including the use of biofeedback
methods, relaxation techniques and stress management, therapeutic modalities,
occupational adaptations or modifications, and psychosocial approaches. Theories
of pain, and evaluation methods and intervention principles are discussed
for persons with a variety of central and peripheral nervous system disorders,
musculoskeletal problems, and psychiatric conditions.
OTPP 520 Upper Extremity Anatomy
In depth study through lecture and cadaver lab of the anatomical structures
and their relationships for the upper extremity is provided. Understanding
of the functional components of upper extremity anatomy is emphasized with
discussion of the clinical significance.
OTPP 521 Advanced Techniques in Hand Rehabilitation
The course examines the latest research regarding hand therapy, addressing
several areas of specialization including: clinical evaluation, sensibility
testing, functional evaluation, wound management, and diagnostic specific
intervention approaches. Clinical reasoning frameworks commonly used in hand
rehabilitation are studied with emphasis upon improving functional performance.
Trends in the field of hand therapy are analyzed with implications drawn
for clinical practice and need for future research.
OTPP 522 Advanced Orthotics
Newly available equipment and materials used in the construction of orthotics
are demonstrated and opportunities to design and fabricate the latest splint
devices are provided. Problem solving in developing innovative splint designs
is facilitated. A clinical reasoning framework based on theories of wound
healing and biomechanics is outlined as a scientific basis for splint selection
and construction per diagnosis and/or stage of rehabilitation.
OTPP 523 Biomechanical Theory of Occupations
Biomechanical theory is utilized to analyze a variety of occupational performances.
Methods of measuring forces resulting from occupational demands are taught.
Pathomechanics related to dysfunctional occupational performances and/or
underlying pathology are examined. Intervention strategies are developed
that have potential of modifying or applying correcting biomechanical forces.
OTPP 524 Topical Seminar/Orthopedic
Special offerings relevant for the evaluation and treatment of clients with
orthopedic impairments. Course is dependent upon the availability of faculty
and student interest. Guest lecturers may be used.
OTPP 525 Evaluation and Intervention for the Shoulder
This course is designed for the occupational therapist who is interested in
performing specific evaluations and interventions for the shoulder joint.
Special emphasis will be placed on detecting hyper and hypomobility as well
as appreciating the role of the capsular ligaments in guiding and allowing
normal movements. Lecture portion will cover functional and service anatomy,
biomechanics and theoretical basis for evaluation and intervention approaches.
Interactive and active learning will be promoted through case studies and
regular lab sessions allowing for mastery of evaluation and joint mobilization
skills.
OTPP 526 Myofascial Techniques in OT
This course covers the essentials of myofascial manipulations for the upper
extremity. The underlying principles of myofascial manipulation and the basic
science being the technique will provide the foundation for the laboratory
portion of the course. The lab portion of the course will consist of practical
hands-on application of myofascial techniques to the upper extremity from
the shoulder to the hand. Cervical technique will be introduced.
OTPP 527 Joint Mobilization
This course is intended for the experienced occupational therapist and explores
the anatomy and biomechanics of upper extremity joints and soft tissue, and
the role both play with upper extremity function. The course will be divided
into five equal sections: the shoulder complex, elbow, wrist, and hand, and
oseokinematic and artokinamatic principles. Students will gain an understanding
of successful management of soft tissue dysfunction through the art of soft
tissue palpitation, muscle location and the adhesions. Students will learn
mobilization techniques that are used to evaluate and improve joint articulation
and soft tissue function. Concurrent with joint and soft tissue evaluation
will be discussion of various intervention approaches in managing musculoskeletal
dysfunctions that clients with chronic pain, multiple trauma, or repetitive
strain injuries experience.
OTPP 554 Advanced Ergonomics
This course discusses relevant aspects of the field of ergonomics as it applies
to occupational therapy practice in industry. Principles of biomechanics
are reviewed in terms of analyzing workspace and environmental design, postures
and seating positions, seating, materials handling, object manipulation,
and tool design. Implications for worksite analysis and modifications and
service delivery in terms of health and safety promotion are discussed.
OTPP 555 Fine Motor Performance/Pediatrics
This course examines normal hand development and function throughout childhood,
reviewing general hand anatomy, kinesiology, neurophysiology, sensormotor,
and the development of hand skills within the context of occupational performance
of children.
OTPP 559 Introduction to Seating and Positioning
This course will cover the essentials of wheelchair seating and mobility through
lecture, discussion, observation, and hands-on experiences. The principles
of seating for working with individuals from infancy through geriatrics having
various diagnoses ranging from cerebral palsy, spina bifida, SCI, TBI, multiple
sclerosis, stroke, and others will be discussed. Topics will include description
of the team members, completion of an evaluation, simple fabrication, funding,
power mobility, and outcomes. Case studies will be used to demonstrate final
fitting and equipment chosen by the individuals and the team. (Additional
selected courses available through the PT MHS Program. Permission from OT
Programs required.)
OTPP 611 Health Promotion and Occupation
This course outlines and defines the role of occupation in health and wellness;
a role based on theories of humans as occupational beings. The premise that
engaging in occupation is a central mechanism of health is examined. In addition
to the major theme of health involving an occupational perspective, occupational
risk factors and negative effects of occupational alienation, deprivation,
and imbalance are explored. The potential of occupational therapy to contribute
to public health is delineated. Developing new environments for occupational
therapy practice via health and wellness model will be examined including
community health, public health, non-traditional medicine, as well as other
emerging practice areas.
OTPP 503 Health Care Systems
Using systems theory, the roles of the medical and educational systems in providing
health care are determined. Emphasis is given to studying new models of health
care delivery, especially determining the economic and political aspects
of providing services. Implications for occupational therapy practice, research,
and education are discussed.
OTPP 551 Consultation
This course explores the consultant's role in private practice, public and
private school systems, industry, and occupational therapy departments. Legislative,
economic, personnel trends, legal implications and the growth of technology
are some of the issue examined in depth in terms of the impact on consultative
practices. The consultation process is described with opportunities to apply
knowledge to the personal development of one's skills as a consultant.
OTPP 553 School System Practice
This course examines service delivery of occupational therapy in school systems
for children with special needs in accordance with current regulations. A
variety of issues are discussed, including intervention strategies, direct
versus indirect services, inclusion, legal and ethical implications for practice,
educational programming, documentation and other administrative concerns.
OTPP 558 Managed Care
An inside perspective on how managed care operates. Current goals and philosophies
of managed care will be examined to enable an understanding of the practices
and policies of HMOs. Strategies to identify the unique, valuable contributions
of OT in a way that managed car organizations can recognize, thereby insuring
fair reimbursement, will be explored. Students will have facilitated activities
to identify ways to become a valued managed care provider so that the occupational
therapist continues to be an integral part of a client's intervention team.
OTPP 590 Small Business Development
This is the study of the role of the entrepreneur in the development and success
of a small business. Course topics such as management techniques, ethical
behavior, and work ethic are highly emphasized.
OTPP 600 Personal Leadership
Occupational therapists are called to perform many different leadership roles
as heads of departments, as leaders of special interest groups or projects
and with clients as leaders of a health care team. This course focuses on
developing the skills that make a strong, effective leader (leading people
through change, developing personal vision as a leader, implementing a broad
strategy for organizational effectiveness, coaching staff to empowerment,
conflict management skills, handling the fear of being in charge, loneliness
of being at the top, developing teamwork and personal qualities necessary
in a leader).
OTPP 601 Introduction to Rehab Management
This course examines the management role in accreditation, personnel management,
multidisciplinary issues, hiring and retention of staff, conducting effective
meetings and developing teams for cost effective outcomes. This course is
highly interactive, and a significant amount of time will be spent exploring
personal management style, communication skills, team building activities,
and interviewing techniques. This course would be of interest to those in
entry-middle management or those pursuing a change to a management position.
This course would also be beneficial to those with supervisory responsibilities
for assistants and support personnel.
OTPP 608 Entrepreneurism in OT
Occupational therapy practitioners can capitalize on trends in emerging practice
areas by taking an idea and turning it into a successful business. That's
entrepreneurship. The 21st century has been called "the century of the
entrepreneur." Entrepreneurs are adding vitality to the economy and
many are improving the quality of life for their communities. This course
will describe the formation of various occupational therapy practitioner-established
businesses and provide strategies for becoming a successful entrepreneur.
OTPP 610 Microsoft Office for OT Managers
This course is designed to introduce the student to Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint,
and the Internet. The course is taught using the Windows platform.
OTPP 611 Health Promotion and Occupation
This course outlines and defines the role of occupation in health and wellness;
a role based on theories of humans as occupational beings. The premise that
engaging in occupation is a central mechanism of health is examined. In addition
to the major theme of health involving an occupational perspective, occupational
risk factors and negative effects of occupational alienation, deprivation,
and imbalance are explored. The potential of occupational therapy to contribute
to public health is delineated. Developing new environments for occupational
therapy practice via health and wellness model will be examined including
community health, public health, non-traditional medicine, as well as other
emerging practice areas.
OTPP 532 Motivational Strategies to Promote Change in Substance Abuse
The role of the occupational therapist in evaluating and providing intervention
for persons with addictions is examined. The major concepts and theories
of substance abuse are presented along with an overview of the prevalence
and the effects of addiction upon society. Occupational therapy frames of
reference and intervention methods are studied, with emphasis upon current
research and trends.
OTPP 533 Family Intervention in Occupational Therapy
Discussion includes changing trends in family structures, dynamics, and special
needs. The occupational therapist's role as part of a multidisciplinary team
in the provision of appropriate family intervention strategies, including
care-giver training, is described. Systems theory is used in analyzing problems
of dysfunctional families that interfere with individual as well as family
functional performance.
OTPP 534 Care of the Terminally Ill
Evaluation and intervention for clients with cancer, HIV, progressive neurological
disorders and other fatal diseases are described. Special consideration of
theories of death and dying is provided. Issues related to intervention for
the terminally ill involving ethics, research, funding, service delivery
and cultural beliefs related to death and dying are examined.
OTPP 535 Therapeutic Interactions and Occupations
This course is designed to give the therapist the essential skills to initiate,
facilitate and sustain the therapeutic process by effectively directing the
therapeutic communication milieu from the initial evaluation to the final
discharge, in order to get the maximal amount of active participation from
the client and family, as well as cooperation from other health care disciplines.
Interview and communication skills are stressed with a focus on client interests.
Occupational history, narratives and goals are addressed, as well as factors
which inhibit the process including depression/psychological disorders, and
stages of adjustment to physical illness. Special attention is paid to dealing
with difficult clients, significant others and health care professionals.
This course is vital for any therapist regardless of practice specialty area.
(Additional graduate coursed available through the Department of Psychology.
Permission from OT Programs required.)
OTPP 611 Health Promotion and Occupation
This course outlines and defines the role of occupation in health and wellness;
a role based on theories of humans as occupational beings. The premise that
engaging in occupation is a central mechanism of health is examined. In addition
to the major theme of health involving an occupational perspective, occupational
risk factors and negative effects of occupational alienation, deprivation,
and imbalance are explored. The potential of occupational therapy to contribute
to public health is delineated. Developing new environments for occupational
therapy practice via health and wellness model will be examined including
community health, public health, non-traditional medicine, as well as other
emerging practice areas.
OTPP 544 Advanced Teaching Practicum
Supervised teaching experience within the School of Occupational Therapy
at the University of Indianapolis. Prerequisite: Permission.
OTPP 545 Advanced Administrative Practicum
Leadership experience under the supervision of a healthcare or academic administrator.
Prerequisite: Permission.
OTPP 546 Advanced Clinical Practicum
Supervised clinical experience within area of specialized interest. Prerequisite:
Permission.