OTA 1120 OT Modalities Lecture

Students study manual wheelchair parts/use/design/fit, ADL and IADL techniques & adapted devices; activity analysis; architectural accessibility and universal design; ergonomics; static splints/hand assessments, workplace design and patient cognitive levels. Designated as a community-engaged learning course.

Community Engaged Learning Project Reflection

I had the opportunity to work along side some ladies from my cohort to assess a public space. Once we decided on a location we set a day and time aside to meet and assess whether this particular business met ADA requirements. ADA stands for Americans with Disabilities Act where we urge for communities to make public spaces available to people of all abilities. 

We conducted our assessment of the business and wrote our review. The manager was very receptive to our recommendations and gave it some consideration. Overall the business did very well. We had a couple of suggestions for them to change, like widening the sink space in the bathroom and fixing some cracks on the ramp. It is good to know that there are some businesses that are willing to have an assessment done and kindly accept the areas that need to be changed to meet ADA requirements. This course has reaffirmed the importance listening to each other and learning how we can help one another. 

As we go through this program I've learned that with education comes change. It's important that as a community we do better. When we are willing to make the changes necessary once something is pointed out we can be improved. Time will tell if the owner is willing to make the changes. 

After completing this assignment I now know what to look for when I enter a building or a home in reference to the ADA requirements. I am looking for areas of improvement as well as areas that are great. I have spent time with people of special needs and have heard the stories of their struggles with these issues. I want to see these changes for them so that all people have the option to shop where they wish.

This assignment has helped me to see the great need for change so people of all abilities can access any shop or attend any event of their choosing. I learned more about ADA and its requirements and the need for it within our communities. 

When I enter a building and I begin asking questions it brings an awareness to the need. It opens other peoples eyes as to why it's relevant. I hope as a future OTA practitioner that I will have the information to share with other OT practitioners and clients what places are accessible for them.