FIELDWORK INFORMATION

Overview

Fieldwork is an essential component of the undergraduate program, and provides opportunities for the integration of theory and practice, necessary for graduation (Hummell, 1997). Within the complexity of the placement setting, students can develop their competencies required for professional practice such as professional communication, self-management and the effective application of occupational therapy assessment and interventions with clients. In working with clients, students begin to develop clinical reasoning skills (Mackenzie, 1997), and self-reflective practice. Fieldwork experience can influence student choice regarding preferred area of future practice.

Over the course of the degree students are required to complete 1000 hours of fieldwork to meet graduation requirements. Most of our students are placed in organisations within the northern region which is an area bordered by Rockhampton in the south, west to Mount Isa, north to Port Douglas and even Weipa. Every student should expect to complete at least one placement away from Townsville. The cost for all travel and accommodation requirements is at the student’s expense. However, we endeavour to assist by allocating students to their preferred regions where possible, allocating offers early and following up requests for accommodation. Student scholarships are also available to assist with fieldwork expenses.

It is also possible for students to complete placements in other states and overseas. However, all requests for placement outside our northern region must be accompanied by an application form submitted to the fieldwork coordinators.

Fieldwork opportunities are diverse and enable some students to gain experience overseas which can include Nepal, Vietnam, New Zealand, Tonga, United Kingdom, Canada, United States of America and South Africa.

Students have a responsibility to ensure they are prepared and complete a number of mandatory requirements such as Hepatitis B vaccination, First Aid training, Working with Children application, and Queensland Health Orientation. Criminal history checks may be requested by some organisations, and students will be notified when this is required as they are allocated their placement, and the procedure to follow.