Description
Research ObjectivesTo explore the perceptions of entry-level occupational therapy academicians in the United States regarding their perceptions on transitioning into academia.
Design
Cross-sectional survey.
Setting
Not applicable (OT educators across the US were surveyed).
Participants
Participants were recruited by posting the survey invitation on American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) CommunOT 'Academic Education Special Interest Section' and by mailing the survey invitation to all accredited OT and OT Assistant educational programs in the US.
Interventions
Not applicable.
Main Outcome Measures
A custom-designed survey tool based on the research question and literature review.
Results
Sixty valid responses were received. Midcareer clinicians with 'terminal degrees' and 'past adjunct teaching or fieldwork supervision experience' appear to be a suitable target for faculty positions. Passion for teaching/research, meaningfulness of work, and intellectual inquisitiveness were the top reasons that encouraged the respondents to choose academia. Majority of respondent's reported inadequate orientation and lack of clarity in expectations post transitioning.
Conclusions
Universities must offer comprehensive onboarding and mentoring, clarity in expectations, and competitive pay to support and retain talents in academia.
| 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 |