Journal article
The competency of New Zealand new graduate occupational therapists: Perceived strengths and weaknesses
Australian occupational therapy journal, Vol.60(3), pp.189-196
2013
Abstract
Background/aim: There is a paucity of research examining the issues faced by New Zealand new graduate occupational therapists entering practice, including understanding graduates' abilities to translate knowledge and skills gained in their professional training, into the clinical setting. This study sought to explore the perceived strengths and weaknesses of newly graduated occupational therapists in New Zealand. Methods: A mixed methods approach was used including: (i) online survey completed by 458 New Zealand registered occupational therapists, and (ii) five focus groups, in four cities, with occupational therapists, educators and managers. Survey and focus group questions explored new graduates' preparedness for practice based on the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand competencies for registration. Results: New graduates were perceived to be strong in the competencies of 'communication' and 'continuing professional development', and weaker in the areas of 'implementation of occupational therapy' and 'management of environment and resources'. Perceptions of graduates' preparedness in relation to 'culturally safe practice', 'safe, ethical and legal practice' and 'management of self and people' were mixed. Conclusion: The profession has not raised any serious concerns about new graduates' preparedness for practice; however, there were some identified weaknesses. Currently, there is no clear evidence that increasing undergraduate training time would address these weaknesses and some indication that postgraduate focus may be preferable. Furthermore, the findings highlight the inconsistency in previous studies regarding perceptions of graduate preparedness. Further research regarding new graduates preparedness for practice, from multiple perspectives and taking into consideration length and stage of education, is recommended.
Details
- Title
- The competency of New Zealand new graduate occupational therapists: Perceived strengths and weaknesses
- Authors
- S Nayar (Author) - AUT University, New ZealandMarion Gray (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and EngineeringH Blijlevens (Author) - AUT University, New Zealand
- Publication details
- Australian occupational therapy journal, Vol.60(3), pp.189-196
- Publisher
- Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Asia
- Date published
- 2013
- DOI
- 10.1111/1440-1630.12027
- ISSN
- 0045-0766
- Organisation Unit
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99450169302621
- Output Type
- Journal article
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