Workshops and Training
Looking for training dates that suit you? Want to be notified of face to face training in your area?
Functional Cognition Training
The Allen Cognitive Network (ACN), based in the US, highly recommends a two-day training program for those who are considering using Functional Cognition and the recommended Allen’s Cognitive Level screening tools, Allen Cognitive Diagnostic Modules (ADM) and clinical observations.
Complete an expression of interest form and we will contact you. Or check out our scheduled workshops and their availability via these links:
2 day Introductory in-person workshop
In person, various locations
2 day Introductory live online workshop
Delivered over Microsoft Teams with multiple presenters in a live and interactive environment, not prerecorded
For individuals download an information leaflet here
For organisations download an information leaflet here
Online and in person, various locations
Download an information leaflet here
NEW!! 1 day How to complete a Functional Capacity Assessment workshop (online and in person, various locations)
This one-day workshop specialises in how to complete a functional capacity assessment for NDIS participants with a psychosocial disability, cognitive disability/impairment or intellectual disability.
It is designed for Occupational Therapists, Psychologist and Social Workers who are familiar with the Allen’s Cognitive Disabilities Model, or those who have completed our two-day introductory workshop in the model and use of the ACLS and LACLS and would like to learn the key elements of an effective FCA.
The two-day Introductory Functional Cognition workshop is a pre-requisite for the Advanced workshop. It covers the following:
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A brief description and history of the Cognitive Disabilities Model (CDM)
Why cognition matters to occupational function
Definitions of cognition in the CDM
Theoretical foundations
The Allen Levels and Modes (ACL)
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The construct being measured: its purpose, limitations, intended use and intended populations
Who may administer, score and interpret scores
Published research and the evidence base, including reliability and validity evidence
Set-up, administration, and scoring
Interpreting the results
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Why use an ADM?
Validity and reliability
Practical session to set up a sample ADM
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Analysis of IADL tasks using Cognitive Disability Theory
Functional Cognition and Behaviour
The one-day Advanced Functional Cognition workshop is suitable for practitioners, therapists and other allied health professionals who have completed the introductory training and have already been using the ACLS in their practice for at least 6 -12 months. Each workshop focuses on the specific requirements of participants and covers the following:
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An in-depth look at how the Model can be used to expand your expertise
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Explore the evolution of this theory and how it can be useful
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Participants will demonstrate mastery of LACLS-5/ ACLS-5
Develop an understanding of the rationale for assigning a score
Explain the meaning of scores and implications to consumers, family/carers and other health professionals
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Participants will develop further understanding of the Allen Cognitive Levels through the ‘just right fit’ for individual clients
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As a key element, you will develop an awareness of the most appropriate communication style to use with clients
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Further exploration and an in-depth look at the Allen Diagnostic Modules
Functional Cognition is a concept developed by Claudia Allen from the Cognitive Disabilities Model. Facilitator, Cathy Hill, has a strong interest in the translation of theory into practice. Workshops and follow-up support are structured to enable use of the model and its associated assessments in your own clinical practice.
OT Do training packages incorporate these delivery methods:
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Content is presented and participants’ questions are answered. This can be face-to-face, online, or a combination of the two. The theory and evidence base of Functional Cognition is explored in this format.
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Participants learn how to administer and score with the Large Allen Cognitive Level Screen and activities from the Allen Diagnostic Manual. Individuals with cognitive abilities at Level 4 or 5 may assist in teaching participants. This has proved to be an enjoyable and effective way of learning the LACLS.
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The facilitator works closely with a small number of participants. This method offers individualised content tailored to each participant.
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The content, timing, and interactions are tailored to meet the needs and abilities of the individual learner.
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We offer ongoing support to assist learners in transferring their training to clinical practice. Following a workshop, OT Do offers participants distance supervision at no ongoing cost. Individuals who are unable to attend face-to-face training may consider this option.
The purpose of this support is to assist you to translate what you have learned in the workshop into clinical practice. Research shows that knowledge translation to clinical practice is limited and slow, and that clinician confidence and systemic issues are major barriers to knowledge translation.
This support is free and time unlimited via email for people who have attended a Functional Cognition Workshop.
For those who require face-to-face support a supervision cost of $160 per hour is applicable.
Support includes but is not limited to:
o responding to questions
o the setup of the Leather Lacing Screen (LACLS)
o administration of the screen
o scoring
o ways of validating the scores obtained
o issues arising from use of the ACLS manual
o interventions based on the Cognitive Disabilities Model (CDM)
o review of draft reports
o assistance to implement the CDM in the workplace
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OT Do offers short presentations to volunteer organisations, including groups of caregivers. These informal sessions help to spread the word about Functional Cognition and broaden perceptions about human 'ability'.