Technical Standards and Requests for Accommodations on Fieldwork
In our commitment to ensuring an inclusive and supportive learning environment, we encourage students requiring accommodations to engage proactively with the Accessibility Resources Office and the IHP fieldwork team. This collaboration aims to tailor accommodations that support the student's success throughout their clinical placements.
Information, policies, and procedures related to technical standards, accommodations for accessibility, and handling of medical or physical problems can be found in Part II. Students are strongly encouraged to review this information prior to the start of each fieldwork education experience considering the demands of the fieldwork practice setting in which the experience will take place.
It is important to recognize that clinical sites are unique in their settings and student expectations. Consequently, while every effort is made to implement reasonable accommodations, clinical sites reserve the right to review and decide on accommodations based on their potential impact on a student's ability to demonstrate entry-level competencies essential for patient care at their specific location.
Students are encouraged to utilize Level I fieldwork opportunities to assess their need for specific accommodations, helping determine what additional support may be required to succeed in various clinical settings. Given that the exact demands of clinical environments can be unpredictable, taking a proactive approach by identifying areas of need is crucial.
Questions regarding one’s ability to meet essential functions and skills required during fieldwork, along with requests for accommodations, should be directed to Accessibility Resources Office and the IHP Fieldwork Team several months before the scheduled start date. Students must individually identify and obtain approval for accommodation requests from the IHP Accessibility Resources Office. This collaboration is critical for negotiating and resolving accommodation-related issues, thus ensuring that all supports are in place to facilitate successful participation in fieldwork experiences. This aspect of advance planning is emphasized during the OT-760 Fieldwork pre-placement meetings and the OT 760 Fieldwork Seminar course that precedes the first Level II Fieldwork course. It is entirely the student’s decision to disclose any accommodations to their fieldwork sites. The AFWC and CEPSA uphold a strict policy of confidentiality and will not share any information regarding a student's accommodations without explicit written permission from the student.
If the student chooses to disclose accommodations, or grants the IHP Fieldwork Team permission to do so, a collaborative plan will be developed. This plan will outline the steps necessary to ensure that the fieldwork site agrees to provide the specified accommodations, thereby supporting the student’s success. In the event that a fieldwork site does not agree to the proposed accommodations, the student will be promptly notified, and alternative solutions will be explored. The IHP Fieldwork Team will work closely with the student to identify other possible fieldwork sites that can accommodate their needs, or adjust the accommodation plan to meet the site's capabilities without compromising the student's ability to successfully participate in the fieldwork experience. Our priority remains to ensure that all students receive the necessary support to thrive in their placements while adhering to the essential requirements of their fieldwork education.
It is important for students to understand that sharing accommodation needs cannot be retroactive. If a student initially chooses not to disclose their accommodation needs and subsequently faces challenges in meeting the demands of the clinical environment, choosing to disclose at a later stage will not excuse past difficulties. We strongly encourage students to communicate their needs as early as possible, as this allows for the necessary arrangements to be made in advance, ensuring they can fully benefit from and succeed in their clinical experiences.
Student Support During Level II Fieldwork
Level II fieldwork presents a range of challenges, but students are not alone in navigating these experiences. The Institute offers a robust support network designed to assist students throughout their fieldwork journey. This network includes the IHP Fieldwork Team, the student's advisor, and the EL-OTD Program Director and Department Chair. Additional support is available from the Accessibility Resources Office, the SHRS Assistant Dean for Faculty & Student Success, the Office of Student Affairs and Services, the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Office, and the Financial Aid office. The Student Assistance Program (SAP) provides short-term counseling for a student who may be experiencing difficulties that affect their personal lives or program performance. To contact the Student Assistance Program call (866) 724-4327. These resources are committed to providing guidance, support, and the necessary tools to help students meet the demands of their fieldwork and achieve success.