Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Jessa Hulteng

Abstract

Purpose: In the United States, students spend a significant portion of their day within the school setting. The school environment, rich with sensory experiences, can either bolster or hinder a student's success and behavior. Research has indicated that unaddressed sensory needs may lead to disruptive behaviors and reduced educational engagement and participation. The purpose of this project was to empower educators with the understanding and tools to identify sensory needs and to shape sensory-supportive environments, ensuring students can thrive to their fullest potential in their educational occupations.

Method: The Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model was the theoretical framework that guided this project. The identification of the site-specific need was achieved through a comprehensive review of the literature and an on-site needs assessment, which included classroom observations, interviews with educators, and consultations with practicing occupational therapy practitioners, culminating in the development of a targeted product to effectively address these needs.

Results: This resource guide entitled Beyond Behavior: Exploring Sensory Connections in the Classroom is designed to help educators manage classroom behaviors through sensory-inclusive practices. Accompanying the guide is a pre-recorded professional development in-service, available as a PowerPoint presentation, which educators can view at their convenience, and will provide a thorough understanding of the foundational concepts of the product prior to use

Conclusion: The professional development materials created in this project serve as a catalyst for interprofessional collaboration, equipping educators to effectively recognize and address the sensory challenges that affect student engagement and behavior. This initiative echoes the body of research advocating for collaborative approaches in educational settings, which seeks to remedy gaps in educator readiness and cultivate inclusive practices that benefit all students. Ultimately, this product aims to enrich the learning environment, affirming the critical importance of sensory support in fostering students' academic achievement and overall wellbeing.

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