Publish or perish: A practical solution for research and publication challenges of occupational therapists in South Africa

 

 

Sanet du^I; Annette Wilkinson^II

^IToit Ph. D. (UFS), M.Sc. OT (St. Loye's, UK), M. OT (UFS), B. OT Therapy (UFS); Lecturer: Department of Occupational Therapy, University of the Free State
^IIPh.D. (UFS), M.Ed. (Education Planning), B.Sc. (Mathematics & Physics); Centre for Higher Education Studies and Development, University of the Free State

Correspondence

 

 

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ABSTRACT

Few occupational therapists in South Africa do research or publish their work, despite the fact that most South African undergraduate courses include a research component in their students' final year. This article considers factors that hinder the development of a research and publication culture amongst South African occupational therapists. An action research project was done amongst clinical and academic occupational therapists in the Free State Province. Attitudes and obstacles towards research and publication were looked at and concepts such as updated theory, evidence-based practice and continuing professional development explored.
In conclusion, a knowledge-creating partnership between clinicians and students, with academic support, is proposed. Such a partnership has the potential to provide a practical solution to enhance research and publication amongst occupational therapists in South Africa.

Key words: Updated theory, evidence-based practice, continuing professional development, research culture

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Correspondence:
Sanet du Toit
Department of Occupational Therapy
PO Box 339
Bloemfontein, 9300
E-mail: dutoitsh.md@mail.uovs.ac.za