RCPT 445: Professional Advancement in Recreation Therapy
Prerequisites: RCPT major and completion of BIOL 322 or BIOL 310:311 with a grade of “C” or better, overall cumulative GPA of 2.5, or permission of instructor
Credit Hours: (3)
Provides ability to identify and understand components of professional competency within the realm of recreation therapy practice including requirements for certification, ethical practice, public relations, and general advancement of the profession. Also provides a broad understanding of organization and management of recreation therapy services and a basic understanding of published standards of practice and the influence that such standards have on the program planning process.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
An in-depth systematic application of professional development in recreation therapy with particular emphasis on scholarship, professional service, credentialing, and application of external standards to practice. Throughout the course, students will integrate previous learning and experiences to develop an identity of self as a professional in therapeutic recreation.
Detailed Description of Conduct of the Course
Through lecture, discussion, readings, experiential learning, and written assignments, students will conduct the course as a mock recreation therapy department. Classes will be conducted in a meeting format adhering strictly to Roberts Rules of Order, with students holding positions typically found in professional organizations.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
1. Understanding of roles, functions, and trends in health and human service agencies and the role of therapeutic recreation in these settings
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and implications of governmental regulations, professional standards of practice, external accreditation, and agency standards relative to therapeutic recreation service
3. Ability to comply with credentialing standards in therapeutic recreation service
4. Ability to apply effective management techniques, particularly financial, personnel, and reimbursement, to therapeutic recreation service provision
5. Demonstrate an understanding of referral, discharge, and transition processes in a continuum of client care.
6. Demonstrate the ability to apply local, state, and federal legislation, regulations and standards to therapeutic recreation services.
Assessment Measures
Student progress will be assessed through exams, lab projects, resource materials, individual development plans, and grant writing.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
Revised 2013
Revised May, 2009