How Visual, Vestibular and Proprioceptive Integration Influence our Behavior and Learning

Written by: Andrea DeSantis, PT, MS-OT, PhD and Amanda Marek Pierce, MS, OTR/L
originally published Fall 2004. Reprinted September 1, 2014

Self-Study Articles are eight to twelve page scholarly articles on current topics related to sensory integration and sensory processing disorder.

Description: This paper describes the influence of visual, vestibular and proprioceptive integration on adaptive behavior and learning. A case study format is utilized to describe the identification, assessment procedures and intervention program for a child with difficulties processing visual-vestibular information. A checklist for parents and teachers to assist with the identification of visual-vestibular problems is also included. This paper presents an excellent introduction to visual-vestibular processing, This paper is a reprint of an article previously published in the OTA Newsline, Fall 2004.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this article readers will be able to:

1. Identify functions of the vestibular, proprioceptive and visual systems and how they interact.
2. Recognize how the vestibular, proprioceptive, and visual systems affect learning.
3. Recognize signs of visual-vestibular difficulties in different age groups.
4. List goals and outcomes of a successful sensory integration assessment and treatment plan.

Course Level: Introductory. There are no prerequisites for this course.

Suitable For: Occupational therapists, OT assistants, physical therapists, PT assistants, speech and language therapists, mental health professionals, teachers.

AOTA
Domain: Areas of Occupation
Process: Intervention

Contact Hours: This course is worth 1.0 contact hours or 0.1 AOTA CEUs.

Completion Requirements: To receive contact hours for this course you must read the article in its entirety, and complete the accompanying assessment.

ADA/Section 504: If you require special accommodations, please contact the Spiral Foundation at admin@thespiralfoundation.org or (617) 969 – 4410 ext. 231.

Continuing Education:

Occupational Therapy Practitioners/ Occupational Therapy Assistants: The Spiral Foundation is an Approved Provider of Continuing Education for occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants by the American Occupational Therapy Association. The assignment of AOTA CEUs
does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.