Experiential Learning in Pediatric Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy: Outcomes for Occupational Therapy Students

OBJECTIVE: Effective training is essential in occupational therapy (OT) programs to prepare students to implement evidence-based interventions. This study examined the impact of experiential learning on OT students' knowledge, confidence, and perceptions related to pediatric constraint-induced movement therapy (P-CIMT). DESIGN: A mixed-methods pre-test/post-test design evaluated changes in students' perceptions of P-CIMT, as well as their self-reported knowledge and confidence in implementing it. PARTICIPANTS: Graduate OT students (n=44) who participated in a P-CIMT experiential learning program. INTERVENTION: An experiential learning program focused on P-CIMT. OUTCOMES: Students completed the Intensive Upper Limb Training Experiential Survey before and after the program. The survey included short-answer, multiple-choice, and Likert-style questions to assess time invest¬ment, perceptions of P-CIMT, self-reported knowledge and confidence, and feedback on the experience. SETTING: University-based program. RESULTS: Students demonstrated significantly greater knowledge and confidence in implementing P-CIMT (p<0.05), along with improved perceptions of its importance. Participants valued the experience and expressed interest in more hands-on learning opportunities. CONCLUSION: Experiential learning meaningfully enhanced students' understanding and confidence in applying P-CIMT. With evidence supporting experiential learning as a positive opportunity for OT students, OT programs should consider incorporating similar learning opportunities focused on evidenced-based interventions to equip students with the necessary experience and knowledge to become evidence-based practitioners.