Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

4-3-2025

Keywords

ergonomics, virtual fieldwork, experiential learning, work from home

Comments

Presented at the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) INSPIRE 2025 Annual Conference.

Abstract

Background

In March of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted clinical and educational environments accessed by occupational therapy students. Educators had to reimagine learning in virtual spaces—including fieldwork education. At the same time, workers in many industries quickly pivoted from office spaces to a work from home (WFH) environment. Most workers had to navigate this transition without employer support—especially in larger companies (Voss et al., 2021).

This project was a collaboration between the academic fieldwork coordinator (AFWC) and a faculty member (fieldwork educator) who worked to identify a need for services as a result of the shift in work environments. Then, built a faculty-led collaborative Level I Fieldwork experience for six occupational therapy assistant students with six clients.

Research on ‘post-pandemic’ work environments continues to support flexible work spaces and WFH options including company policy changes (Lee et al., 2024; Smite et al., 2023). The opportunity to continue ergonomic consulting as a Level I Fieldwork to evaluate workstations and educate workers on wellness should be explored. Additionally, the collaborative fieldwork model and use of virtual platforms make this a format that can support students and workers without geographic location being a barrier.

Language

English

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