The MScOT programme requires students to complete 2 Compulsory Subjects, 5 Core Subjects, and 2 Electives. Students can select Elective Subjects from other MSc programmes offered by the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences. Below is a list of Compulsory and Core Subjects.

Compulsory Subjects

1. Research Method and Data Analysis (RS517)

Subject Leader: Prof. Marco Pang

Number of credits: 3

Objectives: The subject is designed to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of research methodologies and data analysis. It equips students with the theoretical knowledge and analytical skills required to design or critique research studies.

Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:

1. develop a researchable question;
2. describe the various study designs and their pros and cons;
3. explain the principles involved in measurement and instrumentation;
4. develop a conceptual model in outcomes research;
5. select appropriate statistical methods to analyse data and interpret research findings, including the use of software packages (e.g. SPSS); and
6. critically evaluate scientific research publications.

Teaching/learning methods:

Weekly online materials are provided to enable students to learn the key concepts independently. The seminar sessions are designed to allow students to review the online materials through group discussion, and solve problems. Students learn how to select and perform appropriate statistical analysis procedures (including the use of SPSS) for different research questions and interpret the findings in the seminar sessions.

2. Project Study (RS567)

Subject Leader: Dr Benson Lau

Number of credits: 6

Objective: To provide an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge acquired in other theoretical subjects to a practical project. Through the project study, students are expected to develop critical thinking, analytical and evaluative skills.

Upon completion of the subject, students will have:

1. pursued in-depth study of a professional issue that is relevant to their chosen area of specialisation;
2. developed critical thinking, analytical and evaluative skills by conducting the project; and
3. developed the ability to write in a scientific context.

Teaching/learning methods:

Self-directed learning. Each student is assigned a supervisor and required to complete a team project. A study plan (learning contract) is formulated at the beginning of the study, according to the interest of the student and the supervisor. The student is expected to meet regularly with the supervisor, but work independently.

Core Subjects

Students can select 5 Core Subjects from the following list. All are 3-credit subjects. Please note that some subjects are offered in alternate years and some have prerequisite requirements.

Tentatively scheduled to be offered in 2021-22 Semester 1

1. Advanced Occupational Therapy Study (RS5200)

Subject Leader: Dr Sam Chan

Objective: To apply theoretical principles of occupational therapy in emerging fields and to synthesise advanced practice knowledge in a chosen area of practice.

Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:

1. critically review professional occupational therapy knowledge and scientific papers on evidence-based practice in the chosen area of study;
2. analyse and synthesise up-to-date scientific information for in-depth discussion of its relevance and application to current occupational therapy practice in the chosen area of study;
3. critically discuss the future development of occupational therapy practice in the chosen area of study; and
4. show proficiency in professional competencies by acquiring professional reasoning, reflective practice and self-directed learning.

Teaching/learning methods:

Related concepts are grouped together and presented in a series of lectures, seminars, and online resources. Learning is reinforced using seminar presentations that require students to analyse the theoretical constructs of advanced practice.

Students work in groups or individually with a supervisor to synthesise advanced practice using evidence, professional reasoning and theoretical concepts in a selected area of practice. Clinical visits may be arranged by the supervisors to facilitate learning.

2. OT Management for Upper Extremity Participation in Neurological Conditions (RS5202)

Subject Leader: Dr Will Chien

Objectives:

1. Understand the recovery pattern of upper extremity for people with hemiplegia;
2. Understand and apply updated assessments for upper extremity in neurological conditions;
3. Understand and apply the current OT management approaches for hemiplegic upper extremity; and
4. Understand the approach of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to upper extremity rehabilitation for OT.

Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:

1. understand the theory underpinning hemiplegic upper extremity rehabilitation;
2. select and conduct common upper extremity assessments for clients with neurological conditions;
3. appreciate and apply evidence-based practice in upper extremity rehabilitation for clients with neurological conditions; and
4. explore the approach of TCM to hemiplegic upper extremity rehabilitation.

Teaching/learning methods:

Seminars are mainly used to deliver essential knowledge and key information. Practical work is used for demonstration and to enhance students' learning of assessment and therapy skills. Seminar presentation in a group format helps students to work collaboratively. Written assignments are set for individual work and in groups; they should integrate theory and practice in a rigorous manuscript. Independent study is used to help students find and self-study required materials.

3. Advanced OT Practice in Hand Rehabilitation (RS5212)

Subject Leader: Prof. Cecilia Li

Objectives:

1. To advance students’ knowledge of and practical techniques in the management of different types of hand dysfunction, ranging from developmental and musculoskeletal to neurological conditions.
2. To critically analyse the needs of patients with different hand conditions and to provide a comprehensive OT intervention programme to improve overall function.

Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:

1. demonstrate an understanding of the development of hand function from child birth to adulthood;
2. demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the management of various types of hand dysfunction, such as developmental, musculoskeletal and neurological conditions;
3. develop an evidence based approach to solving clinical problems of hand dysfunction and formulating and implementing OT management; and
4. demonstrate an understanding of OT management for common hand dysfunction in Hong Kong and Asian region.

Teaching/learning methods:

• Lectures by local experts on the advanced management of hand evaluation and therapy
• Practical training sessions on clinical advancement for different hand conditions
• Interactive lectures by international experts in different countries and regions (via teleconferencing)
• Small group discussions and presentations by students on specific topics
• Individual project on special topic – written report and seminar presentation
• E-case studies to enhance the holistic management of different hand conditions

Tentatively scheduled to be offered in 2021-22 Semester 2

1. Psychometric Theories and Practice (RS538)

Subject Leader: Prof. Chetwyn Chan

Objectives:

1. To equip students with basic measurement theories required to conduct validation studies of summative instruments.
2. To use different qualitative and quantitative enquiry methods to collect evidence on the psychometric properties of clinical instruments.
3. To evaluate the appropriateness and usefulness of common summative instruments used in clinical practices.

Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:

1. evaluate the relevance and representativeness of test content against the theoretical constructs based on which the instrument is developed;
2. analyse the characteristics of the instruments and evaluate the appropriateness of using specific methods for gathering evidence on their reliability;
3. evaluate the psychometric properties of summative instruments based on evidence generated of structural and substantive validity;
4. criticise the strengths and weaknesses of validation studies of common summative instruments; and
5. synthesise psychometric theories and design an appropriate validation study on the psychometric properties of clinical instruments.

Teaching/learning methods:

The teaching methods used will be tutorials and laboratory work. Students will be given research papers, in-class exercises and quizzes to facilitate their learning of principles of psychometrics. Students will conduct statistical analyses of data sets to help them learn quantitative analysis. Group presentations and assignments are valuable venues for consolidating the knowledge and skills learned in class.

2. Current Development in Neurological Rehabilitation (RS5201)

Subject Leader: Dr Benson Lau

Objective: The overall aim of this subject will be to provide students with the opportunity to integrate scientific knowledge and research evidence into their clinical practice. The focus will be on understanding theoretical frameworks and perspectives in relation to research and clinical practice, encouraging hypothesis testing in the clinical setting, critically analysing the relevant literature, and putting evidence based information into clinical practice. The theme will be using scientific evidence to improve clinical practice.

Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:

1. interpret various theories of motor learning, neuroplasticity, active learning and control in relation to neurological rehabilitation;
2. demonstrate an understanding of the research methodologies in neurological rehabilitation;
3. integrate knowledge of standardised measures of function, their purpose, and their psychometric properties to select, implement and interpret an appropriate measure for specific client groups, populations, settings and objectives;
4. evaluate relevant, evidence-based programs to enhance or maintain function;
5. critically analyse and select treatment and/or technologies to neurological rehabilitation; and
6. extract, critically analyse and apply information from relevant research articles in this subject area.

Teaching/learning methods:

Lectures and seminars will cover theoretical knowledge and recent advances in the field. In guided study sessions, students will discuss selected research articles on assessment and treatment issues. During practical sessions, students will practise selected techniques in the field. Students will be encouraged to do self-reading in the area to enhance their understanding of the seminar discussion.

Tentatively scheduled to be offered in 2022-23

1. Neuro-psychological Rehabilitation (RS510)

Subject Leader: Dr Yvonne Han

Objectives:

1. Evaluate major theoretical and methodological development in neuropsychological rehabilitation.
2. Explore ways to develop behavioural and ecological assessment and specific treatment strategies for neuropsychological deficits.
3. Develop research interests that form the basis for programme evaluation and clinical application.

Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:

1. select and conduct common cognitive assessments for clients with cognitive deficits;
2. outline major types of neuropsychological rehabilitation techniques;
3. appreciate evidence-based cognitive rehabilitation and its applications;
4. understand professional and legal issues in neuropsychological rehabilitation; and
5. explore community reintegration issues and research development in neuropsychological rehabilitation.

Teaching/learning methods:

Face-to-face lectures, together with online self-study videos and other materials, will be the main mode used to deliver key information on neuropsychological rehabilitation. Tutorials will reinforce contemporary issues and offer insights into related rehabilitation issues. Practical sessions will enhance students’ assessment and case management skills.

2. Theories and Practice of Counseling for Rehabilitation and Health Professionals (RS588)

Subject Leader: Dr Andrew Siu

Objectives:

This subject will enable students to attain up-to-date knowledge of counselling theories, and critically evaluate their application and evidence their use with persons with chronic health conditions, disabilities, and mental illnesses. Students will be guided to practise and develop basic interviewing, counseling, and guiding skills to help patients or persons with disabilities to adjust, develop self-management skills, and pursue a healthy lifestyle.

Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:

a. critically appraise the application of key theoretical approaches in health and rehabilitation counselling;
b. critically review research evidence of counselling practice for persons with chronic illnesses and disabilities;
c. demonstrate key interviewing, counselling, and guiding skills used in healthcare and rehabilitation practice;
d. reflect on one’s own counselling style and practice in view of personal values, beliefs, self-concept, and strengths; and
e. practise according to ethical principles.

Teaching/learning methods:

During seminars, short lectures will be given on counselling theories and approaches. These will be closely followed by tutorials in which group discussions and experiential activities are used to further consolidate learning. During practical sessions, the lecturer will instruct and coach the students to practice counselling skills using demonstration, role plays, and feedback sessions. The seminars will be student-led, with students presenting critical reviews of specific counselling approaches.