Integration of International Service Learning in Developing Countries within Occupational Therapy Education: Process and Implications.
- Resource Type
- Academic Journal
- Authors
- Cipriani J; a Department of Occupational Therapy , Misericordia University , Dallas , PA , USA.
- Source
- Publisher: Informa Healthcare Country of Publication: England NLM ID: 8309883 Publication Model: Print-Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 1541-3098 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 07380577 NLM ISO Abbreviation: Occup Ther Health Care Subsets: MEDLINE
- Subject
- Language
- English
International service learning (ISL) is included in an increasing number of courses at post-secondary levels of education, including programs which educate future occupational therapy practitioners. There is a limited amount of literature and research concerning best practices for course-based occupational therapy education featuring ISL experiences, in particular within developing countries. The purpose of this paper is to (a) to review key literature on ISL, (b) explicate key elements which can help design course-based ISL experiences; and (c) suggest areas for further research and development of course-based ISL. The seven elements of focus that provide a base to guide occupational therapy educators who create ISL courses with an immersion component in a country with a developing economy are discussed, as well as future challenges and possibilities when providing occupational therapy services to a global society.