Publication: EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE IN SCHOOL-BASED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY-GUIDELINES FOR PRACTICE.
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Date
2025-04-17
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Type
Poster
Abstract
This project was created in response to the Maine Department of Education’s request for an exploration of the literature surrounding evidence-based practices in school-based occupational therapy. A review of the literature is the first step in developing guidelines for occupational therapists in Maine. As education models evolve, there is a growing need for structured, evidence-informed approaches to service delivery. The authors analyzed the literature using a level of evidence framework in order to provide a comprehensive overview of best practices. Levels of evidence are assigned to studies based on the research design, quality of the study, and applicability for clinical practice (Hissong et.al, 2015). To conduct the examination of literature, the authors (with the guidance of stakeholders) identified and categorized five key components in school-based practice; Response to Intervention (RTI), Universal Design for Learning (UDL), workload versus caseload models, push-in/pull-out service delivery, and interprofessional collaboration. Studies in each area were examined, rated, and a summary provided. In addition, the authors created a literature table with embedded resources offering practitioners in the state of Maine an easy to read guide to understand the evidence surrounding each component of service delivery. The findings emphasize an importance for integrating occupational therapy interventions within general education to enhance accessibility and effectiveness. In collaboration with the Maine Department of Education, this project aims to provide valuable resources and guidelines to assist in promoting evidence-based models of occupational therapy service delivery in schools. The authors of this project will be presenting their findings and project to the Maine Department of Education and occupational therapy practitioners in the state of Maine.
Hissong, A., Lape, J., Bailey, D. (2015) Bailey’s Research for the Health Professional (3rd ed). F.A Davis Company