Systems Analysis & Context

Part 1: Systems Analysis & Context Purpose of Part 1 Part 1 of the Systems Analysis & Service Delivery Project is designed to help you analyze an existing healthcare or community-based system in which occupational therapy services already exist, using systems theory. The goal of this assignment is to develop a clear understanding of how a system functions, how occupational therapy fits within that system, and where meaningful gaps or barriers to OT service delivery occur. At this stage, you are not designing a new program or intervention. You are building the analytical foundation that will support later coursework. Assignment Overview For this assignment, you will: Select a specific, established system that includes occupational therapy services Analyze the system using systems theory Identify key stakeholders, policies, and contextual factors Create a systems map that visually represents how the system operates Write a brief explanation connecting your systems analysis to occupational therapy service delivery This work will directly inform Part 2 of this project and later connect to the Program Development Project. Step 1: Select a System Choose one established healthcare or community-based system in which occupational therapy services are currently delivered. chosen system: Anne Arundel county public school system occupational therapy Important Guidelines Be as specific as possible (organizational or program level) OT must already have an established role within the system Step 2: Create a Systems Map Develop a visual systems map that illustrates how your selected system functions. Your systems map must clearly identify: Core system building blocks Key stakeholders and decision-makers Relevant federal, state, and/or local policies At least one meaningful gap or barrier affecting OT service delivery The map should show relationships and interactions between elements (arrows, flow, etc), not just list components. You may use PowerPoint, Canva, Lucidchart, or similar tools. Step 3: Written Contextual Analysis Write a brief narrative explanation (approximately 12 pages) that: Explains how system components, stakeholders, and policies influence OT service delivery Clearly describes the identified gap or barrier Demonstrates systems-level thinking using course concepts At this stage, focus on analysis and understanding, not solution development. Formatting & Submission Requirements Submit one PDF file that includes: Systems map Written explanation APA format for citations and references Clear organization, professional writing, and Use this example below as a guide to illustrate how to think through this assignment: Linked below are several prior student submissions to help generate ideas.