Bite Sized Learning, Big Outcomes: Supporting OT Fieldwork Educators Through Targeted Education

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2026

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Course Description

Fieldwork educators play a critical role in shaping the competence, confidence, and professional identity of future occupational therapists; yet many report limited preparation for the educational responsibilities associated with student supervision. To address this gap, Fieldwork Tea or Tidbit Fridays was developed as a brief microlearning initiative aimed at providing concise, practical, and immediately applicable information to occupational therapy fieldwork educators.

Using a 12 week microlearning model aligned with the typical duration of a Level II fieldwork experience, participating educators received one short educational “tea or tidbit” each Friday. Topics focused on common fieldwork education challenges, including communication, feedback, student skill development, and educator confidence. Following completion of the 12 week series, educators were invited to complete a Qualtrics survey to provide feedback on perceived usefulness and learning outcomes. Twelve of 63 fieldwork educators completed the survey. Of these respondents, eight reported that the information was helpful, while four indicated that some of the content was helpful. Notably, survey responses revealed no single topic was identified as most beneficial; rather, educators reported learning different concepts across the variety of tidbits offered, suggesting the broad relevance of the microlearning format.

Designed for OT practitioners, fieldwork educators, and academic fieldwork coordinators, this session will highlight how low burden, microlearning approaches can support fieldwork educators across diverse practice settings. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies, adaptable topic ideas, and resources to foster more supportive, effective, and engaging fieldwork education environments.

Speakers

Content Level

Intermediate: This level assumes the audience has general familiarity with the literature and professional practice. The focus of the presentation is on increased understanding and application by the participants.

Practice Areas

Fieldwork and Academics/Education