OCTH 620

OCTH 620: Development and Performance

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of OCTH 610, 612, 614 and 616 or permission of the Chair

Credit Hours: (3)

A study of occupational performance through the human life cycle.  Explores the roles and tasks characteristic of each stage in human life from the prenatal period through old age, and addresses the impact of disability at various life stages.

 

Detailed Description of Content of the Course

Topics include:

• Theoretical frameworks for the study of development and human performance
• Culture and development
• Family and disability issues across the lifespan
• Mental functions and learning across the lifespan
• Communication across the lifespan
• Life stage characteristics during the prenatal period, in infancy, the preschool years, middle childhood, adolescence, adulthood and aging

Occupations and activities meaningful in each life stage listed above, including:

• Sensorimotor play, purposeful play and games
• The development of self-care skills
• Pre-school readiness and school function
• Leisure activity
• Career development, volunteering, work and retirement
• Home management
• Parenting and caregiving
• Social participation and social support networks

The effects of issues such as asynchronous or delayed development, obesity, substance abuse, irresponsible sexual behaviors, disease and mental illness on growth and performance

• Developmental assessments used by therapists

 

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The concepts presented in readings and lectures will be illustrated through print and videotaped case studies, and interviews with and observations of children and adults.  Students will work in teams to learn about developmental assessment tools and to select, participate in and teach age-appropriate tasks.

 

Goals and Objectives of the Course

At completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of human development through the life span;
2. Analyze the effects of physical and mental health conditions on the development of occupational performance, in the context of culture and family;
3. Select developmental assessment tools relevant to a variety of populations across the life span;
4. Select age-appropriate occupations and activities to support and facilitate the developmental process;
5. Demonstrate understanding of principles of learning when teaching developmental activities to others.

  

Assessment Measures

Tests, participation in team activities, and graded projects may be used to assess the outcomes of this course.

 

Other Course Information

 

Review and Approval

February, 2009