Investigating the Efficacy of an Online Multigenerational Awareness Course for Occupational Therapy Students – A Pilot Study

In today’s multigenerational society, particularly in health care settings, thriving can be challenging because of generational differences. Occupational therapy educational programs (OTEPs) prepare students for work environments where three to four different generations may be present. This study examines the effectiveness of an online multigenerational awareness (MGA) course. The secondary objectives include increasing students’ knowledge of enhanced multigenerational collaboration and communication strategies in preparation for future clinical practice. A pilot group of eight participants from various university departments reviewed the course content and completed preenrollment and postenrollment surveys, providing feedback regarding the applicability and perceived usefulness of the multigenerational awareness course as a teaching strategy. The participants’ perceptions of generational awareness were analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA). The preenrollment survey revealed that the participants both represented and instructed individuals from multiple generations. Preenrollment themes were identified as (a) the need to understand different generations, (b) the importance of self-awareness in multigenerational teaching, and (c) the need to incorporate effective teaching methods. Postenrollment themes included (a) expanded insight into multigenerational dynamics and how perceptions change with information, (b) shifts in self-awareness and the effects on teaching approaches shift, and (c) an engaging course for generational understanding and reflective change. Data from the postenrollment survey supports the use of an online course as an effective pedagogical teaching strategy to increase multigenerational awareness. The resultant plan involves piloting the course to students as a subsequent action.