2024 FOTA Connect Member Sessions

Course Title: Supporting student success in Fieldwork: Considerations for diverse students

Course Level: Basic: Introductory Level

Course Speakers & Credentials: Nardia Aldridge, PhD, OTR/L; André Johnson, MOT, COTA/L; Nazarah Williams, MOT, OTR/L; Lakeisha Sanders-Woods, OTR/L

Abstract: Considering the current social and racial climate, it is important for AFWCs to understand the challenges diverse students face for fieldwork placement. Racial concerns with geographical location, accessibility, and cost of living need to be considered, as socioeconomic status and intersectionality of identities pose barriers and can further disadvantage students. This session will focus on reflective analysis of current practices, exploration, and the development of strategies.

 Objectives: 1. Participants will identify geographical, cultural, and safety factors that can impact student fieldwork performance. 2. Participants will discuss strategies to promote diverse students’ success. 3. Participants will create a network of support with whom they may connect to have difficult and courageous conversations about successful fieldwork placements for diverse students.

Speakers Description: Dr. Aldridge is an Associate Professor at Nova Southeastern University. She is passionate about increasing diversity in the occupational therapy profession and advocates for cultural humility in academia and practice.Andre Johnson is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and a recent OT graduate student from FAMU. He is also the Secretary for the South Florida Black Occupational Therapy Caucus.Nazarah Williams is an Occupational Therapist and a graduate from the University of St. Augustine. She is the Student Liaison for the South Florida Black Occupational Therapy Caucus.Lakeisha Sanders-Woods is an Instructor and the AFWC at Concorde Career Institute and Treasurer for the South Florida Black Occupational Therapy Caucus.