The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) teaching lab at Penn State DuBois will soon receive some therapy of its own. A complete renovation of the lab is expected to be finished this fall, with an estimated cost of $35,000. The Penn State University Committee on Instructional Facilities has awarded Penn State DuBois with $27,480 to put toward the project. The remainder of the costs will be covered by donations received by the campus.
Located in the Multi Purpose Building, PTA students use the lab to complete projects and practice physical therapy techniques. The renovation will allow for these activities to continue, plus provide a state of the art instructional space.
New high-tech audio and visual instructional equipment will be the center piece for the new lab. A projector, smart board and new computer equipment will all be installed. This is in addition to a complete face-lift including new furniture, lighting, air conditioning, and window treatments.
"The PTA teaching lab will provide an instructional environment that is conducive to new learning strategies that include interactive technologies in a collaborative setting," said instructional designer Robin Gill, who helped secure the funds for the project. "Working together as a group, having access to technologies with which you can interact, and the ability to test student learning in unique ways are crucial to preparing students with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful," she said.
Physical Therapy Instructor Stephanie Russell adds, "The technological changes will help us advance our teaching with new methods of instruction."
Students in 12 different courses will have use of the new facility.