OTA 1220/30 Modalities II Lecture/Lab

Community Partner Service Learning Reflection -----------------------------------------------------------------

My group worked with the Children’s Center Utah, who serve special-needs preschool and early elementary-age kids and their families. We discussed their needs and settled on creating handouts and a presentation on sensory integration and sensory modulation techniques. A lot of the kids they serve have sensory needs, and the parents usually have little training in the area of sensory modulation. This assignment required us to think critically about the needs of the Center and their clients, the sustainability of a proposed project, communicate professionally, and our own abilities and limitations. We also used electronic resources to gather and share information.

It was really interesting to learn more about sensory integration and just how much sensory dysfunction can interrupt a child’s participation in occupations. As I came to understand more, I developed more empathy for these kids and the families that are trying to support them. I realized how important family involvement is in the treatment of children, and parents need to be educated and empowered to care for them. I want to apply this principle in my practice with any and all ages in order to help my clients succeed more. Also, the experience of collaboration itself was beneficial. I practiced clear communication so that everyone knew what was expected of them, and I was deliberate in allowing others to take charge of parts of the assignment instead of just trying to do everything myself. This was not always easy for me, but I know that collaboration is essential for professional work, and I want to be a lot better so I can better serve my clients and peers. This was an awesome assignment!

Adaptive Device Creation -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For this assignment, I created an adaptive hand crank attachment for hand wheel on a sewing machine. The presentation poster and my reflection are below.

 Sewing can be a relaxing and rewarding leisure or work activity, but arthritis can rob a sewist of that occupation. I have found a lot of joy in sewing, and I know several people who have struggled to sew because of problems with their hands. It was wonderful to see this device give them a sewing adaptation that protected their hands but still allowed them to sew again.

The process of creation was a wonderful opportunity for growth. Since the device wasn’t for me, it required me to practice thinking about life from another perspective, which is an essential trait of OT. I had to try several designs before finding the right one, which was an exercise in patience and creativity. I also learned how to use a 3D printing program to design and print the attachment. I am excited to be able to use this skill in my future as an OT to create and print smaller objects that my clients need—everything from simple machine parts to new adaptive devices. The possibilities for future application are endless!

A semester later, I would like to add to this reflection:

Originally, this product wasn't for me. However,  since then, my wrists and hands have been impacted by many hours of sewing, a computer-based job with poor support, and a multitude of school assignments. Turning the hand wheel is sometimes painful, so the hand crank is even more relevant to my experience now. In communities that involve or serve disabled members, we recognize that this population is one that literally any person could join at any time. The availability of accessible adaptive devices and the inclusion of universal design are necessary to build more inclusive and healthier communities for both our disabled members and our future selves.