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How to Succeed in the Community-Based Occupational Therapy Course (OCC1 622) at McGill University: A Comprehensive Guide

Enrolling in the MSc. Applied (Occupational Therapy) program at McGill University is an exciting step towards becoming a skilled and socially accountable occupational therapist. The course OCC1 622: Community-Based Occupational Therapy is a pivotal component of your academic journey, focusing on anti-oppressive practices, social accountability, and community-based approaches within the field of occupational therapy.

This guide is designed to help you navigate through the course effectively, providing you with the tools and strategies necessary to succeed. From understanding the course structure and key learning outcomes to mastering the assignments and exams, this guide will serve as your roadmap for excelling in OCC1 622.

Step 1: Understanding the Course Structure and Content

Before diving into the specifics, it's crucial to grasp the overall structure and content of the course.

Course Structure

• Credits: 3
• Pre-requisites: OCC1 550, OCC1 617, OCC1-618, OCC1 620, Clinical Practicum 501, 502, and 503
• Coordinator: Hiba Zafran (hiba.zafran@mcgill.ca)
• Instructors: Giovanni Arcuri (giovanni.arcuri2@mcgill.ca)
• Lecture Schedule: 14 lectures, each 2.5-3 hours long, held in the M1 Winter semester.

Course Description

This course is dedicated to developing knowledge, skills, and values aligned with anti-oppressive and socially accountable occupational therapy practices. It emphasizes working with underserved and marginalized groups to promote equitable occupational participation. The course content includes lectures by guest speakers from historically excluded groups, covering topics such as systemic violence, human rights, and social determinants of health.

Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Analyze the impact of social, structural, contextual, and interpersonal determinants on the occupational justice of marginalized groups.
2. Reflect on your own positionality and its influence on your practices as an occupational therapist.
3. Critically evaluate current occupational therapy practices, policies, and regulations.
4. Apply complex reasoning to address social and occupational inequities.
5. Develop multi-level occupational therapy solutions for community contexts.

Step 2: Preparing for Course Engagement

Active engagement is crucial for success in OCC1 622. Here’s how you can prepare:

Reflexivity and Dialogue

• Reflexivity: Reflect on your principles, values, and assumptions regularly. This will help you engage more deeply with the course material and discussions.
• Dialogue-Based Learning: The course encourages collaborative learning through dialogue. Participate actively in class discussions and use multiple modes of communication if verbal participation is challenging.

Course Materials

• Course Reader: Contains the schedule of required readings, viewings, and assignments.
• Reflexive Guide for Emerging Practitioners: A resource to support your reflexive practice.
• Diversity Statement: Emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive learning environment. Respect and sensitivity towards diverse identities and perspectives are expected.

Step 3: Completing Assignments and Preparing for Exams

Assignments and evaluations are integral parts of the learning process. Here’s how to approach them:

Assignments

• Understanding Expectations: Review the Guide to Evaluation of Learning available on MyCourses for detailed instructions on assignments.
• Submission Guidelines: Assignments must be submitted on time. Late submissions incur a penalty of 5% per day, up to a maximum of 20%. Contact the instructor in advance if you need accommodations.
• Plagiarism and Academic Integrity: Ensure all work submitted is original and adheres to McGill’s academic integrity policies.

Final Oral Exam

• Language Choice: You have the right to complete the oral exam in either English or French.
• Preparation Tips: Review course materials thoroughly, practice with peers, and consider potential questions related to the course themes.

Step 4: Navigating Challenges and Troubleshooting

As with any rigorous academic course, challenges may arise. Here’s how to address common issues:

1. Managing Complex Content

• Issue: Difficulty understanding complex concepts related to social determinants of health or systemic oppression.
• Solution: Engage in reflexive practice, participate in discussions, and seek clarification from instructors or peers.

2. Balancing Coursework

• Issue: Struggling to keep up with readings, assignments, and class participation.
• Solution: Create a study schedule, prioritize tasks, and utilize time management tools. Reach out to instructors if you need additional support.

3. Addressing Sensitivity in Discussions

• Issue: Feeling uncomfortable or unsure about how to engage in discussions on sensitive topics.
• Solution: Refer to the course’s diversity statement and principles for classroom engagement. Approach discussions with openness, respect, and a willingness to learn.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I submit my assignments in French?
A: Yes, McGill University’s Charter of Students’ Rights allows you to submit written work in either English or French. This also applies to the final oral exam.

Q: What if I miss a lecture?
A: Attendance is expected, especially since guest lecturers may share personal experiences that are not available in lecture postings. If you must miss a class, review the materials provided and consider discussing key points with classmates.

Q: How can I improve my reflexivity skills?
A: Utilize the Reflexive Guide for Emerging Practitioners and engage in regular self-reflection. Participate in class discussions to explore different perspectives and deepen your understanding.

Conclusion

Success in OCC1 622: Community-Based Occupational Therapy requires active engagement, critical thinking, and a commitment to understanding and addressing social inequities. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the course effectively and develop the skills necessary for a socially accountable occupational therapy practice.