International Doctoral Capstone Experiences Shown to Prepare and Advance Occupational Therapy Clinicians' Current Practice

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Person walking across world map on the ground with text lining the bottom of the image, "Impact of International Doctoral Capstone Experience on Occupational Therapy Clinicians' Current Practice"

Washington, DC, June 7, 2022 - The Journal of Occupational Therapy Education published "The Impact of International Doctoral Capstone Experience on Occupational Therapy Clinicians' Current Practice" by assistant professor and academic fieldwork coordinator, Dr. Lisa Bagby OTD, OTR/L, MHA and others.

“Our team really wanted to learn how an international and immersive capstone experience impacted clinicians' cultural humility and professional practice development. By asking clinicians to reflect, we felt that we could provide insight to clinicians, and students, on the impact that those experiences have on the people that we serve,” said Lisa Bagby, OTD, OTR/L, MHA.

At GW, Dr. Bagby expects this research to influence her support and mentorship to students that are hesitant about engaging in international experiences, whether clinical or capstone experiences. 

“Traveling outside of the country may demonstrate differences in the practice of occupational therapy along with different living situations, expenses, and the ability to build trust and rapport with communication barriers, such as language. However, we are living in an increasingly diverse world and it is important to take advantage of opportunities to enhance or advance our skills in cultural humility, providing culturally responsive care, and celebrating people’s uniqueness,” said Dr. Bagby.

Read the original research here.

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