Development of the Student Practice Evaluation Form-Revised (Second Edition) (SPEF-R2): The first action research...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Therapy Education
• Health Professional Assessment
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• The Student Practice Evaluation Form-Revised Edition (SPEF-R) is the standard Australian tool for assessing occupational therapy students.
• The evolving landscape of occupational therapy necessitates updates to assessment tools.
• Previous versions of the SPEF-R may not fully align with current competency standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing Student Practice Evaluation Form-Revised Edition (SPEF-R).
• To develop an updated version, the SPEF-R2, aligning with the Australian Occupational Therapy Competency Standards 2018.
• To enhance the assessment of contemporary occupational therapy skills.

Main Methods:

• Action research process encompassing mapping to competency standards, tool development, and national online consultation.
• Development of the SPEF-R2 involved incorporating culturally responsive practice, reflective practice, and clinical reasoning.
• Online surveys gathered feedback from clinicians, university staff, and students on the SPEF-R2.

Main Results:

• The SPEF-R2 demonstrated good alignment with the Australian Occupational Therapy Competency Standards 2018.
• Feedback indicated the SPEF-R2 was well-received, with positive reception to additions in cultural and reflective practice.
• Concerns regarding length and repetition were addressed through revisions, including item consolidation.

Conclusions:

• The SPEF-R2 is considered a timely and necessary update by the Australian occupational therapy community.
• Further piloting and refinement of the SPEF-R2 are planned.
• Updates to online platforms and training resources will accompany the release.