Occupational Therapists' Perceptions of Online Competence Assessment and Evidence-Based Resources

This study explored U.S. occupational therapists' perceptions of online competence assessment and associated evidence-based resources.

The study used a cross-sectional design with a survey. Respondents were occupational therapists certifying or recertifying with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy in March 2016.

The response rate was 88.6%, with 58.5% indicating they had used the online competence assessment platform. A majority agreed that the platform's tools helped them identify clinical knowledge (n = 211; 79.9%) and skill needs (n = 160; 60.8%). Of those who obtained copies of the evidence-based resources (n = 98; 45.6%), 72.5% (n = 71) read at least one. Chi-square analysis demonstrated negative relationships between years as an occupational therapist and clinical skills assessment and between highest degree and use of evidence-based practices.

Online competence assessment assisted participants in identifying competence needs and evidence-based resources for improving clinical knowledge and skills.