The use of occupational therapy groups as a treatment modality with primary school learners
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Date
2020
Authors
Dacre, Susan Margaret
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Abstract
This research report describes the current use of occupational therapy groups as a
treatment modality in primary schools, looking at various schools within the South
African context. It explores whether this treatment modality could be used in underresourced and under-serviced schools where accessibility to occupational therapy
services is limited. It is a mixed methods explanatory study, making use of a survey
as well as interviews of 6 participants. It explores the benefits and challenges
experienced by therapists who have run groups. Findings are that groups and
simultaneous treatment sessions are beneficial due to curative group factors, the
ability to manage caseloads and the ability to carry over skills into the classroom.
Challenges when using groups as a treatment modality include management of the
session, admission criteria, effective assessment and measurement of progress and
the ability to address specific aims with each child. The importance of the
implementation of existing South African legislation, and particularly inclusive
education is highlighted. In addition, the Occupational therapist’s active collaboration
with teaching and management staff is essential to successful implementation of group treatment protocols
Description
A research report submitted to the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, 2020