Diversifying practice-based learning
In early 2020 , Glasgow Caledonian University established a diverse practice-based learning experience for two final year occupational therapy students within the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service . Those involved in the project explain how it was set up and reflect on their learning from the experience
A range of practice-based learning is fundamental to the overall student experience and helps formulate a students ’ professional identity . Higher education institutions ( HEIs ) have a responsibility to develop learning opportunities that reflect the diverse scope of occupational therapy and prepare students for registered practice .
Role emerging placements that occur at a site where there is not an established occupational therapy role are an important aspect of this ( COT 2006 ). They have recognised value in supporting students to develop additional skills , and while they have challenges , the learning in these settings can be transformational in terms of personal and professional identity ( Dancza 2019 ).
This is what led Leona McQuaid , lecturer and diverse practice-based learning co-ordinator at Glasgow Caledonian University ( GCU ), to develop an occupational therapy placement within the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service ( SFRS ).
An issue of OTnews , posed the question ‘ Are occupational therapists routinely thinking about fire safety in their day-to-day practice and if not , why not ?’ ( Mickel 2020 ) and it was hoped that by introducing a diverse placement within the fire and rescue service , the importance of fire safety would become integral to the student ’ s approach as occupational therapists .
In 2017-2018 , 60 per cent of home fires in Scotland occurred where residents were aged 60 or over and 30 per cent of fire fatalities in Scotland occurred in homes where the person received a care package ( Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 2020 ).
Given those most vulnerable to fire risk are also likely receiving health and social care input , collaborative working between occupational therapists and fire and rescue
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