Experiential Teaching and Learning: Student, Self-Advocate, and Family Perspectives

“Nothing about us without us” can and should apply to pediatric PT education! This session will discuss realistic ways to involve self-advocates, family advocates, and integrated experiential learning into entry-level pediatric PT curriculum. We will discuss the ways that providing these opportunities enhances student learning, practical strategies for finding, supporting, and including community educational partners, and discussing the impacts of these programs on students, self-advocates, family members, faculty, and administrators. Our session will include a panel with students and educators of diverse abilities and backgrounds highlighting how learning of this type increases DEI in PT programs. We will also highlight student-led research on student perspectives on the impact of experiential learning in pediatric PT. Come with questions and ready to discuss and plan for ways that Pediatric PT educators can promote inclusion for children, adults, and family members of diverse abilities as part of not only lecturing, but also of curriculum development and student development.