Research knowledge, attitudes, and practices of pediatric occupational therapists in Australia, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan

Abstract

Limited evidence is available on the attitudes and perceptions of evidence-based practice and research utilization within the occupational therapy (OT) field. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the research knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to evidence-based practice and research utilization of pediatric OTs from Australia, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan. Questionnaires were mailed to 1,230 participants (300 in Australia, 480 in the UK, and 450 in Taiwan) who were asked to complete the "Research Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Research Survey" (KAP Survey). Responses were received from 696 participants (response rate 56.6%). The findings indicated that pediatric OTs perceived their research knowledge, attitudes, and practices to be of a "moderate" level, with the lowest ratings being for participants' knowledge and practices of "administering research implementation." Participants from Taiwan perceived significantly higher research knowledge, attitudes, and practices than pediatric OTs from Australia and the United Kingdom for a number of research activities. To ensure evidence-based and research utilization among pediatric OTs, continuing education may be required to enhance knowledge and practices of research activities.