The theory in question is really a singular theory on human occupation. And this is where I'm stuck. Because, while theory of human occupation is critical to occupational therapy, the theory is not really applied theory. It's more foundational theory/knowledge. I know this theory is important to OT's practice, I'm not sure how the theory is expressed in clinical decision making.

Thanks for your continuing help...

From: Sibley, James Edward [[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Friday, August 17, 2012 10:49 AM
To: Carson, Ron
Cc: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Backward Design in a Theory Class?

Hi Ron

I would get them into the messy problems of the discipline as quick as possible

You might reinforce, repeat, reiterate theory….even lecture on it sometimes…and focus on theory on the assessments

If the students are solving problems while they build their knowledge structures….there is more chance the they will organize their knowledge in ways that support application/problem-solving more than rote recall

There is also a great motivational benefit to have them working with disciplinary problems early

The question that comes to my mind is….what theory would best describe what we are seeing in this situation…why is this theory useful to understand this situation….knowing that this theory might apply to this situation > what would you expect next….what would you do next to be consistent with the guidance provided by the theory

My two cents

Jim Sibley
Director
Centre for Instructional Support
Faculty of Applied Science
University of British Columbia
2205-6250 Applied Science Lane
Vancouver, BC Canada
V6T 1Z4

Phone 604.822.9241
Fax 604.822.7006

Email: [log in to unmask]

Check out http://www.teambasedlearning.org

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From: "Carson, Ron" <[log in to unmask]>
Reply-To: "Carson, Ron" <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Fri, 17 Aug 2012 10:21:09 -0400
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Backward Design in a Theory Class?

I'm attempting to "convert" a theory class into TBL but I'm having trouble answering the question, "What are students who really understand the material doing that shows they get it?"

The class is a theory class on human occupation (occupation = activity people do to take care of themselves, be productive and have fun). It's the student's first trimester of a 7 trimester occupational therapy program. The problem is that this is foundational knowledge and I'm sure what students will actually DO with the information.

The will certainly think differently but as far as actually doing something with the knowledge, I'm just not sure. Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Ron Carson MHS, OT

Assistant Professor

Adventist University of Health Sciences

671 Winyah Dr

Orlando, FL 32803

407.303.9182