Knowledge generation and utilisation in occupational therapy: towards epistemic reflexivity.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to consider the ways in which theory generation, and hence knowledge generation, in occupational therapy is a complex social process, and therefore carries (often hidden) responsibilities for those who are part of our epistemic community. An epistemic community is a knowledge-producing community, who apply their standards of credibility, and epistemic values, to theory choice. In occupational therapy this community is comprised of a worldwide group of scholars and practitioners.


METHODS
We propose that epistemic reflexivity can be used to critique and contribute to our disciplinary knowledge and to critically consider 'who' makes epistemological choices in our profession, and the consequent implications for the theories we adopt. The purpose of this article is to make these relations explicit so that scholars and therapists can become increasingly conscious and empowered with respect to their contributions to occupational therapy's epistemic community. To demonstrate an application of epistemic reflexivity, we critically consider a theoretical construction that has been widely adopted by the international occupational therapy community: evidence-based practice.


RESULTS
As authors, we engage in epistemic reflexivity to critically consider the challenge posed by evidence-based practice. We propose a conception of practice knowledge that is informed by evidence yet based on a conception of wise practice.


CONCLUSIONS
Our intention is to stimulate discussion and debate in occupational therapy's epistemic community, a number of approaches for fostering epistemic reflexivity in occupational therapy are suggested.
Kinsella
Elizabeth Anne
EA
School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Elborn College, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. akinsell@uwo.ca
Whiteford
Gail Elizabeth
GE
D055317:Evidence-Based Practice; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D019359:Knowledge; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000193:education*; D010686:Philosophy, Medical; D012111:Residence Characteristics