Description
Research ObjectivesTo explore the supports and barriers to academic success in a nationwide sample of Black students in entry-level occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant programs.
Design
A survey design was used.
Setting
The study was conducted in a secure, online setting.
Participants
Individuals who self-identified as Black/African-American and were enrolled in an entry-level occupational therapy (OT) or occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program in the US between January 1, 2017- December 31, 2020 were recruited to participate in the study. Recruitment information was shared nationwide with 200 accredited OT and OTA programs and professional OT organizations that have student membership.
Interventions
Participants completed an online survey that contained forty-one Likert scale or open ended questions focused on the students’ experiences in the classroom, in their OT or OTA program, with their peers and instructors, and clinical education experiences. The survey was distributed over a three week period. The survey took approximately seven minutes to complete.
Main Outcome Measures
A survey containing forty-one questions were developed and contained Likert scale, multiple choice, and open-ended responses.
Results
124 responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Location, cost, and school reputation were the top factors influencing OT/OTA program choice. Respondents also indicated it was of high importance to feel supported by the faculty, utilize learning materials that reflect diverse perspectives, have clinical experiences in a supportive learning environment, and to feel comfortable asking questions to clinical instructors. A lack of awareness of, and access to the OT profession, as well as discrimination were listed as barriers in the educational experience.
Conclusions
Health care programs serve as the entry point for the development of the healthcare workforce. This study sought to identify supports and barriers in OT and OTA educational programs. The results can inform recommendations for implementing practical and relevant strategies at the educational and clinical levels to foster diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning environments.
| Period | Nov 1 2023 |
|---|---|
| Event title | American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine - Annual Conference 2023 |
| Event type | Conference |
| Location | Atlanta, United StatesShow on map |
| Degree of Recognition | National |