Fieldwork, an integral part of the MOT learning experience

Fieldwork is designed to enrich classroom learning through directed observation and participation in practice settings. After the first semester, fieldwork experiences are included in each semester of the program. The experiences progressively build on each other and are designed to integrate with the curriculum design.

Level I Fieldwork

These experiences are part time over the course of each semester and are linked to courses students are taking. For example, in the first semester students gain exposure to mental health, emerging practice, and management practice settings that provide opportunities to view and develop skills beyond the assistant level. You’ll observe practitioner interactions, and develop an understanding of the needs of potential clients from a person-environment-occupation model. Every effort will be made to arrange field sites that are in the area in which you reside and that broaden your COTA experiences to bridge your understanding to the MOT level. In the second year it is planned that you’ll further broaden the experiences and enrich the application of knowledge to practice.

Level II Fieldwork

To prepare the student to make the transition to an entry level therapist the final phase of fieldwork has two full time placements. These placements are twelve weeks in duration and may require relocation. You may only repeat one Level II placement. The students have up to 24 months after finishing their academic coursework to complete both of these experiences.

AOTA Fieldwork Data Form (For fieldwork sites and fieldwork educators)