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

Background/AimThe 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.MethodsA 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.ResultsThe initial findings showed the assessment to be easy to complete and sensitive to testing understanding of the defined terms.ConclusionsThe final outcome is an assessment tool that has broad application for occupational therapists wishing to enter professional practice in a new country.

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