Advancing the use of theory in occupational therapy: a collaborative process.
BACKGROUND
Theory is important to the growth and evolution of occupational therapy. However, use of theory remains challenging for many therapists.


OBJECTIVE
The aim was to develop a process that occupational therapists could apply to advance theory in practice.


METHODS
Based on a review of the literature and using a qualitative instrumental case study design, 18 student occupational therapists and eight fieldwork educators completed online modules on the theory advancement concepts generated from the literature, wrote journals, and/or participated in online discussions during fieldwork. Following fieldwork, educators were interviewed and students participated in focus groups exploring their experiences. Directed content analysis was used to analyze the data.


RESULTS
Based on the data collected, we developed the Theory Advancement Process (TAP). The TAP is composed of four primary contexts, a climate of collaborative relationships with four key elements, and four essential processes.


CONCLUSIONS
The TAP presents a collaborative process for students, faculty, and therapists to work together to advance the use of theory in practice.
University of Manitoba, Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Medical Rehabilitation, R106-771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3E 0T6. Leanne.Leclair@med.umanitoba.ca
Leanne L
LL
Leclair
Jacquie D
JD
Ripat
Pamela F
PF
Wener
Juliette E
JE
Cooper
Leslie A
LA
Johnson
Ellen L O
EL
Davis
Margaret Anne
MA
Campbell-Rempel
D002170:Canada; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003479:Curriculum; D006801:Humans; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000193:education* / Q000379:methods*