Evaluation of an occupational therapy mentorship program

It was identified that there is a lack of evidence for the effectiveness of formal mentorship programs, no evidence supporting mentor groups and little research in mentorship specific to occupational therapy.

The following quantitative study evaluates the mentorship program offered within the occupational therapy curriculum at The University of Western Ontario.

One hundred and seventy nine surveys were analyzed to evaluate participants' perceptions of the program's strengths, weaknesses, changes needed, effectiveness, and whether it should continue to be offered.

In general, mentors and mentees reported that the mentorship program should continue to be offered and that it was effective in developing professionalism. However, the structure of the program, clarification of its requirements, and more support for the mentors were identified as some areas for change.

Results can impact further program development at this university and other occupational therapy programs which may have a similar program or are interested in developing a mentorship program.