In the Room or Down the Hall? Rethinking Occupational Therapy Access and Instructional Alignment

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 9:45am
  In Poster Session: In the Room or Down the Hall? Rethinking Occupational Therapy Access and Instructional Alignment

Abstract

This qualitative research study explores the perceptions of occupational therapists and teachers regarding two common models of occupational therapy service delivery in educational settings: push-in and pull-out. Guided by three research questions, this study investigates how these models impact student access to services, influence teacher perceptions of student engagement and progress, and shape the collaborative experiences between professionals. Using grounded theory, data was collected through semi-structured interviews with two occupational therapists and two elementary school teachers working in public schools. The analysis revealed three overarching themes: approach overlaps, approach differences, and professional attitudes.

Authors

• Isabella Durso, Pace University

• Francine C. Falk-Ross, Pace University