HU OTD Students Publish Research On Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Learning during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge for students at all levels of the educational process. Virtual methods and format may have been particularly challenging for hands-on, or kinesthetic learners. OTD students Michael Stamm, Kailey Francetic, Regina Reilly, Angela Tharp, Nicole Thompson, and Ryleigh Weidenhamer decided to critically examine the experience of kinesthetic learners in the OTD program using a mixed-methods approach. Their study, entitled Kinesthetic Learners During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Occupational Therapy Students’ Perspective on E-Learning, was recently accepted for publication in the Journal of Occupational Therapy Education.

Researcher Michael Stamm provided an overview of the study:

“This mixed methods study aimed to determine the perspective of Doctor of Occupational Therapy students during the utilization of e-learning in the Spring 2020 semester. Researchers explored the viewpoints of participants that self-identified as kinesthetic learners, those who rely on hands-on learning. The adaptations these students applied were examined as well, including their ability to change their learning style when needed. The participants reported that although they were successful in their learning experiences, they had less confidence in the materials learned and their ability to apply them in the future. Student participants also supplied suggestions for faculty to consider when providing e-learning. These included having regular class meeting times instead of pre-recorded lectures, allowing more time to submit assignments, and providing complex demonstrations when learning about hands-on techniques through e-learning. Learning through online formats can be a flexible experience, and when possible, it is suggested that the environment be adapted to benefit the students and cater to their learning styles. Educators can increase their effectiveness by helping students to identify their learning styles and support this learning style throughout the teaching experience.”

We are extremely proud of these students and their service through scholarship!

Posted By: Nate Short