I would like to share a discussion of Motions 1 and 5 and their implications. This dialog occurred on the RA listserv between Yvette, the RA rep from Tennessee and Wendy Hildebrand, the Speaker of the RA.
Yvette wrote and asked:
I'm writing to see if someone can please help me understand the implications of Motions 1 & 5...as a faculty member at a University where both the entry-level MSOT and entry-level Clinical OTD are offered I'm still unclear as to what jurisdiction AOTA and the RA have with regard to ACOTE...I understand that ACOTE is autonomous but I think the confusion stems from not being clear how the COE interfaces with ACOTE...
I have followed the discussions about the OTD for many years now through the discussions on various list-servs including the Program Director's list-serv and know that ACOTE's position has varied from considering eliminating the ability for programs to even offer an entry-level OTD to now finalizing separate standards for OTD and MSOT programs. I also am well aware that in the past ACOTE has accredited entry-level programs at the bachelors, master's and even graduate-certificate level without having the need to create separate standards to coordinate with each and that ACOTE has always taken the position that they accredit programs, not degrees...I'm also aware that other accrediting bodies (Ohio Board of Regents, SACS) have allowed universities to develop OTD programs without requiring separate ACOTE Standards so I'm still not persuaded that there is in fact a need to have 2 separate sets of Standards...
I guess I'm not really looking for us to engage in a discussion about these issues, I'm just trying to get some clarification as to whether or not Motion 1 & 5 are even relevant at this point in the process or whether the issues are "moot" - hasn't ACOTE already committed to the creation of 2 separate standards and basically legitimized the 2 separate points of entry??? - It seems that any opportunities for additional comments/input to ACOTE have now passed.
Thanks, Yvette
Wendy responded:
Hello Yvette and Assembly Members,
Thank you for bringing your questions forward regarding Motion 1 and Motion 5. You've made good points regarding potential points of confusion and have asked great questions related to process and windows of opportunity for change. These two motions are providing a context for a passionate discussion about entry level preparation for occupational therapists. It will be very important for each member of this Representative Assembly to be clear about facts and events while also sensitive to emotions (from many sides) about this professional issue. We will be a much better "representative" body if we listen well, discuss fairly and make sound decisions that represent the best interest of our profession and are responsive to our constituents. To assist you as you seek to understand the implications of Motion 1 and Motion 5 and gain clarity about the relevance of the proposed actions, we are providing some information that we hope will be helpful to you.
Both motions reference "Resolution J" as adopted in 1999. It was this resolution that initiated the "Movement to Required Post Baccalaureate Level of Education". The full text of Resolution J is attached for your reference.
AOTA and ACOTE have constructed an OTD Fact Sheet that aims to clarify authority of inter-related but very distinct bodies. The fact sheet also provides a process overview specific to the development of OTD standards. You will find the fact sheet attached below.
The attached "Response to PRODEC Questions" document was prepared in response to the request for information identified at the Program Directors' Education Council (PRODEC) meeting held on October 20-21, 2006. AOTA Counsel reviewed the "response" and shares his comments in the attached letter. The PRODEC response document is provided for your consideration.
Policy 3.4 outlines the existing Association policy about the "Education of Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants". The policy is attached for your review.
Please understand that this information is provided to assist your understanding and to support your conversation with constituents in your state/election area and with commission/council members. Intent and interpretation of fact will likely be at the heart of dialogue you might have with others. Prepare yourself well, check your own emotions at the door and enjoy the discussion!
Looking forward to St. Louis!
Wendy RA Speaker
I know that this is a lot of information, but I hope that you can review it and provide some input on your opinion. I am especially interested in input from educators, field-work educators and recent graduates (both bachelors and masters level).
Claudette Reid
AOTA RA Representative from Michigan
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