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A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
Contribution of Qualitative Research to Evidence in Practice for People With Autism Spectrum Disorder
George S Tomlin1, Yvonne Swinth2
1George S. Tomlin, PhD, OTR/L, is Professor, School of Occupational Therapy, University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA; tomlin@pugetsound.edu.
Abstract:
Appraising the best available evidence substantiating and informing occupational therapy practice is a commonly expressed obligation for the profession (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2007). In this article we argue for the full inclusion of qualitative research, on parity with quantitative research, as a source for evidence of relevant and effective occupational therapy practice, review the limitations of quantitative research, and outline the distinctive contributions of qualitative studies to the practice of occupational therapy for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In addition, we describe the role of qualitative studies in the fulfillment of the Centennial Vision (AOTA, 2007) and recommend three action steps for the profession.
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