Occupational Therapy Virtual Reality Community of Practice

About the Group

Amanda founded this group in May 2024 to empower Occupational Therapists (OTs) to embrace innovation, share knowledge, and become leaders in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.

When Amanda began integrating VR into her practice, she encountered limited information and support, making the process both time-consuming and challenging Recognising this gap, she wanted to create a space where OTs could access resources and collaborate more efficiently.

OTs are uniquely equipped to drive advancements in VR therapy. By combining a holistic understanding of clients with the ability to analyse the functionality, occupational demands and aplicability of technology and apps, we can create personalised solutions that enhance therapy outcomes and foster innovation in the field.

By joining, you’ll gain access to cutting-edge insights, practical tools, and a supportive network of like-minded professionals.

As the group grows, we look forward to exploring new opportunities and expanding our collective knowledge.

While the group is based in Australia, we warmly welcome OTs from around the world to contribute their expertise and perspectives.

What the Group Offers:

Our group provides a variety of resources and opportunities to support OT members in their VR journey.

1. Social Media options to support networking and collaboration opportunities between members.

Facebook Group (main group)
WhatsApp Group (for those not using FB)

2. Meetings/Educational Sessions

These are generally held every 2-3 months, and often include guest speakers and members discussing practical case examples and other useful information. Also opportunities for Q & A discussions.

3. A VR Occupational Therapy Central Hub

This platform aims to provide a dedicated space for OTs to access information and resources related to VR, such as research and literature, VR App details, videos, and case examples.
It was designed to support OTs in understanding and integrating VR technology into their practice, helping them explore its potential for therapy, rehabilitation, and client engagement.
This platform was recently developed as part of a University of South Australia Community Project undertaken by three fourth-year OT students. It was based on the findings of a needs analysis they completed, which examined the enablers and barriers for OTs in integrating VR technology into their practice.
We encourage members to contribute resources to it.

4. Member Contributions & Participation

We encourage members to contribute in ways that work for them. This may include submitting resources for the OT VR Hub, attending or presenting at meetings, providing feedback and ideas to support fellow OTs and guide the directions the group takes.

Join us today to be part of this innovative community

If you are an Occupational Therapist and interested in joining our group please contact Amanda and she will send through the group details and a password for accessing the OT Central Hub. amanda.shields@beinspiredgroup.com.au

FAQs:

Do I need prior experience with VR to join? Not at all, the group welcomes any OTs with an interest in VR. We hope this group will motivate interest and help support OT’s wishing to consider VR in their practice.

I am an OT Student, can I join? Yes, we welcome OT Students and encourage OT students to share details about any research or VR projects that you are involved with.

I am not an OT can I still be involved? While we are only accepting OTs as members, we welcome collaboration with other professionals, such as clinicians or VR developers, who may wish to present at our sessions or share relevant information with our members.