C027/11
Curtin University opens the doors today to its state-of-the-art occupational therapy and social work facilities that will enable students to practise client- and family-centred care scenarios in realistic interprofessional settings.
The $9 million two-storey development on the University’s Bentley Campus will use the latest technology to enable students to undertake simulated scenarios alongside current technologies.
Head of Curtin’s School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Professor Lorna Rosenwax, said the newly renovated building offers some of the best facilities for occupational therapy and social work students globally.
“These innovative facilities have been designed following extensive research, consultation and planning with staff, students and clinicians. They offer a cutting-edge teaching and learning space,” Professor Rosenwax said.
The innovative and integrated teaching space includes:
State-of-the-art laboratories to support teaching in contemporary and emerging areas of practice. For example, a laboratory for developing the potential of children in early years through to adolescence, simulated home environments with a variety of options for people with disabilities, simulated work environments for workers with a range of injuries and a range of resources to enhance communication.
- A 100-seat lecture theatre and five tutorial rooms.
- A suite which includes two group rooms, viewing areas and eight counselling rooms, all supported by innovative digital recording technology for teaching and learning in mental health.
- A dedicated comprehensive discipline-specific resource library and learning centre for students, staff and clinicians.
- A modern well-appointed student common area which includes full wireless access.
From each of the five laboratories, staff will be able to research both discipline-specific and inter-professional areas of research such as:
- Eye tracking within a play environment for children with autism spectrum disorders
- Use of sensory integration for children with learning disabilities
- Use of assistive technologies for people with physical limitations
- Role of Wii in cognitive training and coordination
Occupational therapy and social work courses are growing in popularity and the new facility will provide an excellent environment to educate future generations of occupational therapists and social workers.
Contacts:
Professor Lorna Rosenwax, Head of Curtin’s School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work
Tel: 9266 3604, Email: l.rosenwax@curtin.edu.au
Kristy Jones, Public Relations, Curtin
Tel: 9266 1930, Mobile: 0402 517 300, Email k.jones@curtin.edu.au
Teresa Belcher, Public Relations, Curtin
Tel: 9266 9085, Email: teresa.belcher@curtin.edu.au
Web: www.curtin.edu.au
