Low Vision Rehabilitation Curriculum: A Design Using the AOTA Standards for Continuing Competence

Abstract

This paper describes development of a comprehensive Web-based distance education occupational therapy (OT) curriculum leading to a graduate certificate in low vision rehabilitation. The program was designed as post-professional education to develop continuing professional competence in OT practitioners in this specialty area of practice. The AOTA Standards of Continuing Competence were used as part of the framework for curriculum development. The rationale for using the standards as a curriculum framework is discussed with examples of the way in which it was used to guide development of course content and instructional materials. Outcome evaluation results indicate that the curriculum adds positive value to the practice of occupational therapists completing the program.

KEYWORDS:

• Curriculum design
• distance education
• low vision rehabilitation