Outline

Overview

This elective unit provides students with an opportunity to explore specialised areas of occupational therapy that are of interest to them, with a focus on promoting participation and health across the lifespan. Within this unit, students will select two specific practice areas such as disability right and inclusion, trauma-informed care, early interventions, school-based interventions, health promotions and falls prevention. Through interactive learning activities students will develop fundamental skills essential for their chosen specialised practice. Moreover, the unit will enhance their professional competency in planning and delivering occupational therapy services, empowering individuals to effectively address a variety of challenges affecting their participation and health.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Participation Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	A minimum of 72 credit points of OCCP units of study
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Lynette Mackenzie, lynette.mackenzie@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Lynette Mackenzie, lynette.mackenzie@sydney.edu.au
	Anne Honey, anne.honey@sydney.edu.au
	Susan Shaw, sue.shaw@sydney.edu.au
	Bronwyn Simpson Simpson, bronwyn.simpson@sydney.edu.au
	Roxanna Pebdani, roxanna.pebdani@sydney.edu.au
	Weihong Zhang, weihong.zhang@sydney.edu.au
	Kylie Angelou, kylie.angelou@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 4 July 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length
Skills-based evaluation	In class assessment Assessment on practical skills in chosen topic from Session 1 (Weeks 1-2)	25%	Week 03 Due date: 08 Jul 2025 at 10:00	N/A
Outcomes assessed:
Skills-based evaluation	In class assessment Assessment on practical skills in chosen topic from Session 2 (Weeks 4-5)	25%	Week 06 Due date: 29 Jul 2025 at 10:00	N/A
Outcomes assessed:
Supervised exam ?	Exam Short answer and/or multiple choice questions on two chosen topics.	50%	Week 07 Due date: 08 May 2025 at 10:00	1 hour
Outcomes assessed:
= restricted AI ?

Assessment summary

This unit of study will include 3 assessment tasks;

The first task will be an inclass practical assessment in week 3, related to the chosen topic in Session 1, from Topics 1-4 and will require students to demonstrate an understanding of the content from weeks 1 & 2.

The second task will be an inclass practical assessment in week 6, related to the chosen topic in Session 2, from Topics 1-4 and will require students to demonstrate an understanding of the content from weeks 4 & 5.

The third assessment task is the final exam which will occur in week 7 and will cover content from across the 6 weeks of the unit with the student selecting to complete two sections in the exam related to their chosen topics.

These assessments will not allow use of AI during completion of the task, but students may use AI to prepare for the task.

Assessment criteria

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	The learning outcomes of the unit of study have been met to an exceptional standard.
Distinction	75 - 84	The learning outcomes of the unit of study have been met in an exemplary manner
Credit	65 - 74	The learning outcomes of the unit of study have been met in a comprehensive and high standard
Pass	50 - 64	The learning outcomes of the unit of study have been meet to a satisfactory standard
Fail	0 - 49	The learning outcomes of the unit of study have not been met to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Except for supervised exams or in-semester tests, you may use generative AI and automated writing tools in assessments unless expressly prohibited by your unit coordinator.

For exams and in-semester tests, the use of AI and automated writing tools is not allowed unless expressly permitted in the assessment instructions.

The icons in the assessment table above indicate whether AI is allowed – whether full AI, or only some AI (the latter is referred to as “AI restricted”). If no icon is shown, AI use is not permitted at all for the task. Refer to Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks for this unit.

Your final submission must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of automated writing tools or generative AI, and any material generated that you include in your final submission must be properly referenced. You may be required to submit generative AI inputs and outputs that you used during your assessment process, or drafts of your original work. Inappropriate use of generative AI is considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and penalties may apply.

The Current Students website provides information on artificial intelligence in assessments. For help on how to correctly acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the  AI in Education Canvas site.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The Current Student website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Session 1 (Weeks 1-3) Topics 1 & 2 Tuesdays	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 01	Session 1 (Weeks 1-3) Topics 3 & 4 Tuesdays and Thursdays or online	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 02	Session 1 (Weeks 1-3) Topics 1 & 2 Tuesdays	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 02	Session 1 (Weeks 1-3) Topics 3 & 4 Tuesdays and Thursdays or online	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 03	Session 1 (Weeks 1-3) Topics 1 & 2 Tuesdays	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 03	Session 1 (Weeks 1-3) Topics 3 & 4 Tuesdays and Thursdays or online	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 04	Session 2 (Weeks 4-6) Topics 1 & 2 Tuesdays	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 04	Session 2 (Weeks 4-6) Topics 3 & 4 Tuesdays and Thursdays or online	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 05	Session 2 (Weeks 4-6) Topics 1 & 2 Tuesdays	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 05	Session 2 (Weeks 4-6) Topics 3 & 4 Tuesdays and Thursdays or online	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 06	Session 2 (Weeks 4-6) Topics 1 & 2 Tuesdays	Block teaching (6 hr)
Week 06	Session 2 (Weeks 4-6) Topics 3 & 4 Tuesdays and Thursdays or online	Block teaching (6 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

As an intensive unit of study, attending all workshops will assist you with your learning and help you to keep on track with the content covered. There is an in class assessment in weeks 3 & 6 that you must attend.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Discuss and assess factors influencing participation and health of individuals with a range of health conditions and disability in the selected areas of specialised practice
LO2. Develop goals to address factors influencing participation and health in individuals with health conditions and disabilities in relation to the selected areas of specialised practice
LO3. Investigate and critically appraise the available evidence about the effectiveness of the intervention approaches to promote participation and health
LO4. Create and justify client-centred and occupation-embedded intervention plans for individuals with health conditions and disability to promote their participation and health

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Australian occupational therapy competency standards 2018 - 1.1. Complies with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia’s standards, guidelines and Code of conduct 2.1. Applies current and evidence-informed knowledge of occupational therapy and other appropriate and relevant theory in practice 3. Occupational therapy process and practice 3.3. Collaborates with the client and relevant others to determine the priorities and occupational therapy goals 3.4. Develops a plan with the client and relevant others to meet identified occupational therapy goals 3.5. Selects and implements culturally responsive and safe practice strategies to suit the occupational therapy goals and environment of the client
	Australian occupational therapy competency standards 2018 - 3. Occupational therapy process and practice 3.3. Collaborates with the client and relevant others to determine the priorities and occupational therapy goals 3.4. Develops a plan with the client and relevant others to meet identified occupational therapy goals 3.5. Selects and implements culturally responsive and safe practice strategies to suit the occupational therapy goals and environment of the client
	Australian occupational therapy competency standards 2018 - 2.1. Applies current and evidence-informed knowledge of occupational therapy and other appropriate and relevant theory in practice 3. Occupational therapy process and practice 3.5. Selects and implements culturally responsive and safe practice strategies to suit the occupational therapy goals and environment of the client
	Australian occupational therapy competency standards 2018 - 1.1. Complies with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia’s standards, guidelines and Code of conduct 2.1. Applies current and evidence-informed knowledge of occupational therapy and other appropriate and relevant theory in practice 3. Occupational therapy process and practice 3.3. Collaborates with the client and relevant others to determine the priorities and occupational therapy goals 3.4. Develops a plan with the client and relevant others to meet identified occupational therapy goals 3.5. Selects and implements culturally responsive and safe practice strategies to suit the occupational therapy goals and environment of the client

Australian occupational therapy competency standards 2018 -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
1.1		Complies with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia’s standards, guidelines and Code of conduct
2.1		Applies current and evidence-informed knowledge of occupational therapy and other appropriate and relevant theory in practice
3		Occupational therapy process and practice
3.3		Collaborates with the client and relevant others to determine the priorities and occupational therapy goals
3.4		Develops a plan with the client and relevant others to meet identified occupational therapy goals
3.5		Selects and implements culturally responsive and safe practice strategies to suit the occupational therapy goals and environment of the client

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

This is the first iteration of this unit

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

OCCP4105: Lifespan Approaches in Occupational Therapy

Intensive June - July, 2025 [Block mode] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links