Document Type (Journals)
Educational Innovations
Abstract
This study explores the development and implementation of a custom-designed simulated Electronic Medical Record (sEMR) system integrated into a simulation-based Level I occupational therapy fieldwork experience. The sEMR was collaboratively developed by the Occupational Therapy Department and the University Learning Design Team to provide occupational therapy students with realistic exposure to electronic medical record navigation and documentation. First-year Doctor of Occupational Therapy students engaged in eight patient scenarios that simulated real-world settings—two of which utilized the sEMR for chart review and documentation while the remaining six used paper-based documentation. At the conclusion of the simulation, sixty-five students completed a modified Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) questionnaire to assess their perceptions of the system’s ease of use, usefulness, and their acceptance and applicability to future use of EMRs in practice. The results indicated that students found the sEMR useful, relevant to their learning, and beneficial in preparing them for future Level II fieldwork and professional practice. Although most students reported positive experiences, some challenges were noted regarding the system’s ease of use and navigation. This study underscores the value of incorporating sEMRs into occupational therapy curricula to help bridge the gap between academic learning and the pragmatic demands of modern-day practice, ultimately better preparing students for the transition to Level II fieldwork.
Biography
Ricardo Altahif, OTD, OTR, CHT is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Baylor University. He holds certifications in hand therapy, fieldwork education, and hybrid education.
Kirsten Davin, OTD, OTR/L, ATP, SMS, CAPS, CHSE is a Clinical Assistant Professor and the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator for Baylor University's Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program. She holds additional certifications in seating and positioning and healthcare simulation and teaching, and has a research focus pertaining to simulation in clinical education.
Yue Ma, M.S.Ed. is the Assistant Director of Learning Experience Design at Baylor University and is completing her Ed.D. at Indiana University. Her research focuses on instructional designer competencies in higher education, and enhancing student learning experiences through effective pedagogy and the integration of emerging technologies.
Celina Casas, OTD, OTR is an Associate Professor for the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program at South Texas College. She serves as an adjunct faculty member for the entry-level and Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs at Baylor University. She has been an occupational therapy practitioner for twenty-four years.
Declaration of Interest
The authors report no declarations of interest.
Recommended Citation
Altahif, R. G., Davin, K., Ma, Y., & Casas, C. (2025). Bridging Technology and Fieldwork Education: Developing an Electronic Medical Record for a Simulated Level I Experience. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 9 (2). Retrieved from https://encompass.eku.edu/jote/vol9/iss2/12
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