Application of Humanistic Learning Theory in an Associate Degree Program for Occupational Therapy Assistants

A humanistic education model was implemented in a 2-year associate degree curriculum for occupational therapy assistants. The goal of this model was to help students to become responsible and successful with their own lives. This prepares students with higher levels of ability to cope effectively with clients in crises. The curriculum presented here supports the framework of The American Occupational Therapy Association role delineation document (Entry-Level Role Delineation for OTRs and COTAs, approved by the Representative Assembly, AOTA, March 1981).