Professional Preparation of Allied Health Practitioners and Special Educators Using a Collaborative Transdisciplinary Approach

Abstract

This article presents a curriculum model that emphasizes the development of transdisciplinary teaming skills for therapeutic recreation students and students from other related services professions. While health care professionals are often required to work in teams, professional preparation programs provide limited instruction and few experiences that prepare graduates for truly collaborative models of service delivery (Golightly, 1987; Orelove, 1994; Rainforth, York & Macdonald, 1992; Strawderman & Lindsey, 1995; Pew Health Professions Commission, 1991, 1993, 1995). Recent developments in health care reform are emphasizing the need for professionals in allied health to work in a more integrated and collaborative style than ever before. The need for disciplines to be more integrated in their approach to treatment is becoming the benchmark for qualified professionals. The Project TEAM (Transdisciplinary Education and Mentoring) model presented here provides students in communication disorders, early childhood/special education, occupational therapy, and therapeutic recreation with discipline-specific knowledge and skills, as well as a core of cross disciplinary courses and experiences, that prepares them to work effectively as transdisciplinary team members.