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Updated: May 13, 2026
05:47
Evidence-based Knowledge Synthesis and Hypothesis Validation: Navigating Biomedical Knowledge Bases via Explainable AI and Agentic Systems
Published on: June 13, 2025
The evidence-based paradox.
1Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York, NY 10012, USA. Jh9@nyu.edu
Summary
Occupational therapy practitioners should critically examine the unquestioned adoption of evidence-based practice (EBP). This approach may challenge the profession's theoretical foundations and practice paradigms.
Area of Science:
- Occupational therapy
- Evidence-based practice (EBP)
Background:
- Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners widely view evidence-based practice (EBP) as crucial for validating services and professional legitimacy.
- Unquestioned acceptance of EBP as the sole guiding paradigm for practice and research is a point of concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review the concept of evidence-based practice (EBP) within occupational therapy.
- To explore criticisms and concerns regarding EBP from other professional fields.
- To examine the potential implications of adopting EBP at the expense of theory-directed practice.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of evidence-based practice (EBP).
- Analysis of criticisms from various professions regarding EBP.
- Examination of the theoretical underpinnings of occupational therapy practice.
Main Results:
- The article highlights concerns about the uncritical adoption of EBP in occupational therapy.
- Criticisms from other professions suggest potential limitations of EBP.
- The shift towards EBP may overshadow theory-driven approaches in occupational therapy.
Conclusions:
- Occupational therapy practitioners should engage in critical discourse regarding the role and implications of EBP.
- Rethinking the exclusive reliance on EBP is necessary to ensure a balanced approach to practice and research.
- Maintaining a strong theoretical foundation is vital for the continued development and legitimacy of occupational therapy.
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