Associate ProfessorDanielle Hitch

I work towards fostering equity and inclusion and enabling students to effectively translate their learning into practice following graduation. I create learning environments where students with diverse backgrounds and abilities feel valued, respected, and empowered to actively engage in their learning. Occupational therapy is a practice-based discipline, and I emphasize the translation of student knowledge via evidence-based practice into skills applicable to the workplace that enable students to effectively adapt to real-world contexts. By seeking and seizing opportunities to innovate in my teaching, I demonstrate my commitment to providing our students with a relevant and responsive education.

I have over a decades experience as a unit chair and lecturer, teaching across all years levels in the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University. I have significant experience in clinical teaching within allied health, encompassing continuing professional development related to clinical practice, clinical research and career development. I also led lead a team of Deakin University who were tendered to develop e-modules regarding mental health occupational therapy practice for the national peak body (OT Australia).