Date of Award
5-10-2025
Document Type
Oral Presentation/Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Faculty Mentor
Megan Johnke, OTD, OTR/L
Keywords
Sensory group program, general education students, special education students, elementary school, sensory processing, sensory based interventions, sensory systems, sensory needs
Subject Categories
Occupational Therapy
Abstract
The purpose of this 14-week capstone was to develop and implement a sensory group program for general and special education students within an elementary school. It aimed to explore the impact related to meeting sensory needs within the classroom. The program followed a weekly theme centered on each of the eight sensory systems to increase knowledge and self-regulation skills about various sensory inputs. A total of around 80 students participated in the sensory group program, including both general and special education students. A pre- and post-program survey was administered to determine the frequency of sensory needs demonstrated by the students before and after participation in the program. Results showed significant decreases in the average amount of sensory needs for each group following the allotted program time. These findings suggest that structured sensory time within a student’s daily routine can help promote classroom engagement and self-regulation strategies. The outcomes highlight the importance of sensory-based interventions benefiting all students of varying ages and ability levels. This project reinforces the role of occupational therapy in promoting evidence-based interventions and inclusivity and contributes to the growing research completed on sensory-based intervention in schools.
Recommended Citation
Olness, Kamryn J., "A Sensory Group Program for General and Special Education Elementary Students" (2025). Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations. 145.
https://red.library.usd.edu/ot-capstone/145