Video - Introduction to Occupational Therapy

NYP Occupational Therapy Course Outline - A Narrative Perspectives

Year 1 (Newbies)

There were 2 roads, and we chose the less trodden one. Entering into the Occupational Therapy (OT) course, we had no idea how this journey would transform us. The first year we had to build foundations through learning anatomy, physiology, sociology, psychology, the lifestyle and lifespan of people and not to mention our OT Process. We had a taste of clinical observations in hospitals or community settings and various electives allowed us explore our interests in the language, arts or entrepreneurship.

Year 2 (Explorers)

Cementing the 1st layer, we began acquiring more knowledge and skills in the physical, cognitive and psychosocial aspects of a human. There were more therapeutic activities, leisure experiences, community interventions, group works, manual handling, problem-solving as well as learning basic counseling skills and different hand conditions. We also had to critique OT assessment tools, visit healthcare settings and understand Singapore’s development. Indeed the pace had increased and expectations in clinical attachment had risen.

Year 3 (Contributors)

Entering the final lap, we knew it was going to be tough. Thankful for the supportive and caring friends and lecturers around us, we wanted to prepare ourselves well for the working world. It was the time to integrate all that we had learnt and to apply them. We had to polish up and further build on what we had learnt with an emphasis on OT Models, work rehabilitation, assistive technology, neuropsychology and aging issues. Learning took on a treatment focus on the holistic care of human’s cognition, physical and psychosocial areas. Final year project was always on our minds as we seek to develop a meaningful research study and clinical attachments became more intense and enjoyable. Hence it was guaranteed that at the end of the course, one would grow to be a contributing member to society and also grow as a person. Nostalgia….

(Eunice Lee, 2007)

Hearing From The Horses' Mouths About Studying Occpational Therapy At NYP

1. Why did you choose this course?

• Occupational therapy is the only medical field which allows one to view an individual holistically. The social, physical and cognitive aspects are all significant during the treatment of our clients. In the journey of looking for a combination of helping someone socially from the medical field, OT was THE choice.
  
• An Occupational Therapy education in Nanyang Polytechnic integrates the practice and philosophy of Occupational Therapy to the local context. I believe that this initiative prepares me to become a competent and confident practioner when I serve my community.

2. Why did you choose to do it locally?

• 3 reasons; Family, Friends and a Quality education (Occupational Therapy) in a safe and familiar homeland-Singapore.
  
  
• The high quality and standards of the course are certified by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT).

3. How is the course like?

• OT education is a challenging, enriching and satisfying 3 yr course. Upon completion of this course, one will gain new perspectives and insights to life besides to being an OT.
  
• We went through a holistic and broad course which encompasses different areas of knowledge such as psychology, neurology, sociology, psychiatric, medical etc… to equip us with the skills and knowledge to work collaboratively with our clients. In addition, there are clinical fieldwork educations to complement the knowledge and technical skills gained in during the academic course.
  
• Empowering and sociable, Our OT lecturers provide support to all students throughout the course studies.

4. Is the course tough?

• The course itself is demanding, hence, making one competent as a fresh diploma graduate. Despite the challenges faced, the modules are extremely enjoyable and interesting.

(Chen Chun Rui, Abigail Lum, Lye Yu Li, Eunice Li, 2007)

Fast Facts About Occupational Therapy

1. What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy is a health profession that uses activities with specific goals to help people from all ages prevent, reduce or overcome effects of disabilities (Singapore Association of Occupational Therapists, 2007)

2. What are the differences between the job scope of an Occupational Therapist and Physiotherapist?

An Occupational Therapist:

• Assess patients’ current functional capabilities and their potential to improve.


• Formulate treatment and intervention plans to help patients become more self-sufficient in the different settings where they are. This may include visits to the home, workplace or schools to identify changes and promote independent living.


• Educate patients, their family members and caregivers on how to manage their conditions.


• Promote healthy lifestyles which reduce the risk of further disability.Conduct workshops related to the disability.
  

A Physiotherapist:

• Identify problems and limitations in movement.


• Apply different physical techniques such as exercise to improve and prevent injuries and illness.


• Work with other professionals like doctors and nurses, and client’s family members to improve patients’ movement.


• Enable patients to regain as high a level of independence as soon as possible.

(Singapore Press Holdings, 2007)