Compulsory Volunteering: Using Service Learning to Introduce Occupation to Occupational Therapy Students

Abstract

Service learning, integrated into an occupational therapy curriculum, presents a unique learning experience. Students engage with people within the community, which fosters civic responsibilities and personal resourcefulness in the process. This leads to personal reflection on the role of occupation in their lives and those of others. At a time of increasing pressure on traditional placements, the University of the West of England seeks to nurture this type of learning and proposes that perhaps the time has come to debate whether it is as valuable as a traditional placement.