Preprint
Innovative Teaching in Occupational Therapy: Reflections on using 3D Bathroom Simulation for Practice-Based Learning (Practice Report)
SSRN, Vol.Series Paper No.45
Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Research Paper Series, Elsevier
01/02/2026
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Abstract
Home modifications, particularly within bathroom environments, are a fundamental aspect of occupational therapy practice; however, students often find it challenging to translate theoretical knowledge of accessibility standards, design principles, and occupational therapy frameworks into practice. Traditional teaching approaches, such as case studies and 2D images, offer limited experiential depth. This study describes and evaluates an innovative pedagogical initiative integrating three-dimensional (3D) bathroom models into an undergraduate occupational therapy curriculum to enhance student engagement and applied learning. Five 1:5 scale 3D bathroom models, accompanied by 3D-printed fixtures, fittings, and assistive technologies, were developed to reflect authentic client scenarios. Students interacted with the models during laboratory sessions to identify environmental barriers, propose modifications, and justify their reasoning using occupational therapy frameworks. A reflective and thematic analysis conducted by two academic staff identified five themes: enhanced engagement, learning through error, benefits for visuospatial learners, strengthened problem solving and clinical reasoning, and increased confidence linking theory to practice. Findings indicate that 3D bathroom models provide a valuable experiential learning strategy that bridges theory and practice and better prepares students for real-world home modification practice. This approach shows strong potential for broader integration across occupational therapy curricula to improve learning outcomes and student satisfaction.
Details
- Title
- Innovative Teaching in Occupational Therapy: Reflections on using 3D Bathroom Simulation for Practice-Based Learning (Practice Report)
- Creators
- Lisa Couzens - Southern Cross UniversityJasmine Reisch - Southern Cross UniversityJoshua William Targett - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- SSRN, Vol.Series Paper No.45
- Series
- Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Research Paper Series
- Publisher
- Elsevier
- Identifiers
- 991013352973402368
- Academic Unit
- Allied Health and Midwifery; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Preprint
- Local Fields
- Original Research - SoLT