Direct Supervision
During Level II fieldwork the nature of supervision will evolve from direct to less direct, depending on various factors including the setting, the severity of the client's condition, and the student's developing competence.
All students will begin their Level II fieldwork with a period of direct supervision. This period is crucial for establishing a foundation of professional practice, ensuring safety, and aligning expectations. Direct supervision involves on-site, immediate oversight by a qualified fieldwork educator.
The transition from direct to less direct supervision is contingent upon:
Setting Appropriateness: Consideration of the fieldwork setting and its suitability for gradually reduced supervision, ensuring the setting can still provide a supportive learning environment.
Client Condition Severity: Evaluation of the clients' conditions being served and the implications for required supervision level. More complex or severe conditions may necessitate prolonged direct supervision.
Student Competence: Assessment of the student's ability to demonstrate progressive autonomy in professional tasks and decision-making.
Competence is measured through continuous evaluation of the student's performance, skill acquisition, and ability to integrate feedback into practice.
Decisions to adjust the level of supervision will be made collaboratively between the student and the fieldwork educator, with input from the academic program as necessary.
Expectations of Less Direct Supervision: Under less direct supervision, students are expected to take on increased responsibility for their professional development and client care, within the bounds of their competence and under the overarching guidance of their supervisor.
Regular, scheduled meetings between the student and the fieldwork educator will continue to ensure ongoing support, feedback, and adjustment of learning objectives.
Support Mechanisms: The program will provide resources and support mechanisms for both students and fieldwork educators to facilitate the successful implementation of this policy, including training on effective supervision strategies and access to academic advisors for consultation.
Concerns regarding supervision should be directed to the academic program's fieldwork coordinator for resolution. The principles of the AOTA Code of Ethics (2020) can serve as a resource for students and fieldwork educators. Students should not complete an unsafe activity/task or a task they do not feel competent to complete. In such a situation, students are advised to first approach the supervisor to resolve the issue. If students are unable to resolve the issue, they are informed to contact the Program immediately. The AFWC will then make appropriate arrangements with the fieldwork site. These safety guidelines are reviewed during Level I fieldwork courses and OT 760 Fieldwork Seminar.