Student Perception of Instructional Methods within an OTD Clinical Practice Curriculum Thread

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2026

11:15 AM – 12:15 PM

Course Description

This project examined instructional strategies utilized across the OTD “excellence in clinical practice” curriculum thread, including traditional lecture, structured note-taking, think-pair-share, case-based learning, small group discussion, polling, simulation-based platforms (e.g., Simucase), concept mapping, and reflective activities. These approaches are grounded in established educational theories, including constructivism (Vygotsky, 1978), active learning theory (Bonwell & Eison, 1991), and Kolb’s experiential learning theory (Kolb, 1984; Kolb & Kolb, 2018), which emphasize active engagement, knowledge construction, and application.  

This cross-sectional, mixed-methods study was conducted across four OTD courses during the final four weeks of the semester.  Student surveys (pre/post) assessed their exposure to instructional methods, perceived balance of lecture versus active learning, and preferred approaches. Faculty presenters will report their utilized instructional practices, and open-ended responses from the surveys will identify effective and ineffective strategies for student learning. Findings will inform future selection and alignment of evidence-based instructional strategies across the courses.

Speakers

Dr. Ann Bartman in an associate professor in the Occupational Therapy Division at The Ohio State University. She currently serves as President of Pi Theta Epsilon National Honor Society and a Board Member of The Ohio Occupational Therapy Association. She has been teaching in OTD programs for the past decade and has an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Duquesne University and OTD from Chatham University. Dr. Bartman’s clinical background is primarily inpatient acute care. Her research focus is the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, specifically student self-efficacy.

Dr. Ali Williams, EdD, OTD, OTR/L, is the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator at The Ohio State University. With clinical experience across pediatric and adult settings, she mentors OT students and teaches fieldwork courses. She also supports admissions and student retention, helping guide prospective students and fostering success throughout the OT program.

Adam Snyder, OTD, OTR/L, BCPR, is an Assistant Professor of Practice in the Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program at The Ohio State University, where he teaches adult rehabilitation and neurorehabilitation coursework. He holds Board Certification in Physical Rehabilitation (BCPR) from the American Occupational Therapy Association, reflecting his advanced expertise in adult physical rehabilitation practice. Prior to transitioning to academia, he spent eight years as a practicing occupational therapist with OhioHealth, specializing in adult inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation.

Dr. Snyder earned his post-professional OTD from the University of Montana, where his capstone explored the integration of active learning strategies into adult physical dysfunction curricula within occupational therapy education. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Higher Education and Student Affairs at The Ohio State University, with a focus on curricular development and student well-being.

Sydney Gately, OTD, OTR/L, serves as an Instructor of Practice in the Occupational Therapy Division at The Ohio State University. A proud alumna of the doctoral program, she teaches courses focused on mental health practice and the therapeutic relationship. In addition to her academic role, Dr. Gately maintains clinical practice as an occupational therapist in acute psychiatric and partial hospitalization settings, with specialized interests in personality disorders and first-episode psychosis.

Dr. Matthew Husband is an occupational therapist, with nine years of clinical experience, primarily in the field of pediatrics. He has worked in outpatient, home health, and school-based practice. Dr. Husband currently works as an Assistant Professor of Practice at The Ohio State University. His area of passion focuses on improving the lives of students with autism, with a particular interest in transition-related services. Dr. Husband received his Occupational Therapy Doctorate in May 2025 and his Capstone Project focused on improving employability for young adults with autism. Dr Husband supports the profession through his service within the AOTA, serving as the Representative Assembly member for Ohio.

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