A new comprehension and communication tool: A valuable resource for internationally educated occupational therapists

BACKGROUND/AIM: The need was identified for a way to assess internationally educated occupational therapists’ skills in understanding and communicating professional terminology used in occupational therapy practice. The project aim was to develop and validate such a resource. METHODS: A scenario-based assessment was developed using a three-phase process for tool development. The development process involved completion of a literature scan of professional terminology used in occupational therapy practice; selection of terms and concepts commonly used in occupational therapy practice; and, creation of practice-based scenarios illustrating key concepts complete with rating rubrics. An advisory group provided oversight, and a sample of internationally educated occupational therapists completed pilot and validity testing. RESULTS: The initial findings showed the assessment to be easy to complete and sensitive to testing understanding of the defined terms. CONCLUSIONS: The final outcome is an assessment tool that has broad application for occupational therapists wishing to enter professional practice in a new country.