Occupational Competence Research Articles

How the Occupational Competence and Quality of Life in Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Changed During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed Design Study

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the occupational competence and quality of life of parents of children with autism using a mixed-methods design. It compared 220 parents of children with autism to 300 parents of neurotypical children, utilizing the Occupational Self-Assessment, Short Form 36 Health Survey, and qualitative interviews for data collection. Quantitative results revealed significant differences in occupational competence and quality of life between the two groups. Qualitative interviews underscored changes in parents’ professional and social roles, along with reductions in self-care, productivity, and recreational activities, particularly affecting parents of children with autism.

The Effect of Occupational Therapy Intervention on Occupational Performance in the Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Background: Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is a common sleep disorder characterised by recurrent breathing interruptions during sleep, leading to significant health issues and impaired occupational performance. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of occupational therapy intervention program tailored for OSAS patients. Methods: A total of 23 participants (18 males and 5 females) diagnosed with OSAS were included in this prospective analytical study conducted over six months at a tertiary care hospital. Participants were selected based on specific inclusion criteria, and their baseline and post-intervention assessments were performed using the Occupational Performance History Interview-II (OPHI-II). Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate the significance of the results. Results: The mean age of participants was 51.96 years, with an average Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) of 39.87. Significant improvements were observed in occupational identity (pre-test: 25.08 ± 6.88; post-test: 30.78 ± 7.02), occupational competence (pre-test: 20.91 ± 6.37; post-test: 25.00 ± 6.65), and occupational setting (pre-test: 20.86 ± 6.00; post-test: 25.04 ± 6.58), with all p-values < 0.001, indicating high statistical significance. Conclusion: The occupational therapy intervention program significantly enhanced the occupational performance and overall well-being of patients with OSAS. This study highlights the importance of integrating occupational therapy into the management of OSAS, particularly for patients facing barriers to conventional treatments. Future research should further explore the long-term effects and broader applications of such interventions.

Long-term impact of COVID-19-related health restrictions on occupational competence and values

Purpose This paper aims to determine the long-term effect (at 15 months) of lockdown on occupational competence and values. Design/methodology/approach In total, 391 participants who participated in the first phase of the study (i.e. a previous study conducted during lockdown) were included. They completed an online version of the Occupational Self-Assessment. The results were compared with Phase 1 scores. Findings Occupational competence scores reduced during lockdown and increased 15 months later, but they did not return to pre-lockdown levels. The value score was lower 15 months after lockdown than pre-lockdown. The personal value system, which began to change during lockdown, was further changed at 15 months. Originality/value This study confirms that the spring 2020 lockdown had a long-term impact on occupational competence and values.

Exploring the Impact of Animal Assisted Interventions on the Occupational Participation of People Living with Dementia

Abstract Background Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI) is defined as a goal-directed intervention designed to promote improvement in social, emotional, physical and cognitive functioning (AAII 2020). AAIs are a growing area in dementia research and practice (Lai et al. 2019). There is a significant gap in implementing and researching AAI in a UK context (Fine 2019). Caring for pets and service animals is considered an instrumental activity of daily living (AOTA 2008) and AAI has been shown to enhance the occupational participation of other client populations (Winkle et al. 2012; Herlache-Pretzer et al. 2017; Andreasen et al. 2017). It is unclear what impact AAI has on the occupational participation of people living with dementia (PLWD). Methods Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was proposed to facilitate deep level interpretations of the experience of occupational participation for PLWD who have an assistance dog. Over a two-month period, the researcher proposed to complete four thirty-minute video observations capturing PLWD participating in a chosen occupation in their home environment. The researcher further proposed to maintain a reflexive journal and document notable observations throughout the research process to enhance the development of themes. Results PLWD have the right to access personally meaningful occupations (WFOT 2006). Assistance dogs may have the potential to facilitate positive occupational experiences such as occupational identity, occupational competence and occupational adaptation. Conclusion Occupational therapists who claim to be guided by the principals of client-centred practice (RCOT 2015a) must strive to look beyond traditional interventions to effectively meet the individual needs and preferences of PLWD (Brodrick and Barry 2016). Education and further research (Fine 2019) are required to raise the profile of AAI in a UK context. Future research would benefit from exploring the experience of occupational participation in social environmental contexts for PLWD (who have an assistance dog), to gain whole experiential accounts of this phenomenon.

MBTI Personality Types and Their Impact on the Effectiveness of Employment Services and Career Guidance for Modern College Students

MBTI is a widely used psychological tool, which categorizes individual personality preferences based on four dichotomies. It is applied across diverse fields like career counseling and personal development it fosters collaboration and guiding individuals toward fulfilling career paths. There is growing need to understand how diverse MBTI personality types influence career related decisions and the overall success of employment services. The objectives of the study are to explore the relationship between MBTI personality types and college students' career choices, the efficacy of needs on career decision-making, and examine associated challenges and ethics. This research systematically analyzes studies published between 2015 and 2023, focusing on the impact of MBTI personality types on career outcomes. It highlights the diverse influence of MBTI personality types on college students, impacting their cross-cultural adjustment, occupational competence, coping skills, mental well-being and turnover intention. These insights contribute valuable knowledge to enhance personalized career guidance and employment services, facilitating better alignment with individual preferences for improved professional success and satisfaction.

Effects of Ball-Vests for Children Exhibiting Sensory Seeking Behaviour: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial

ABSTRACT Children with challenges processing sensory information can have difficulties affecting their ability to participate in school activities, which may affect their potential for learning. The aim of this study was to examine the possible effects of an intervention with three weeks use of ball-vests that provide proprioceptive-tactile stimulation for children exhibiting sensory seeking behaviour. Methods: The study was a pragmatic randomized controlled trial that included 142 children (105 boys and 37 girls, mean age 8.9 years) with dysfunction in sensory processing and sensory seeking behaviour. The children´s ability for attention was measured with the “Test of Everyday Attention-Children” (TEA-Ch), their occupational competence in school activities with the “Child Occupational Self-Assessment” (COSA) and the extent of off-task behaviour with the “Observational off-task Behavior among School-children” (OBS-Children). Data was analysed using linear mixed model regression. Results: Children in the intervention group had a significantly larger increase in self-assessed occupational competence than children in the control group (B = 5.78, p = 0.004). No differences regarding attention or extent of off-task behaviour between intervention and control group were found. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04173871..

RESEARCH ON THE ELEMENTS OF OCCUPATIONAL COMPETENCE OF HIGHER VOCATIONAL STUDENTS BASED ON DELPHI METHOD AND GROUNDED THEORY IN THE PRC

Occupational competence (OC) is a matter of competitiveness in the future job market as well as the level of student development. However, in China there is a gap between the OC of higher vocational students (HVS) and the requirements of the industry, and graduates have a relatively low employment rate and lack the necessary skills and experience in the real world, requiring additional training and guidance in order to be qualified for their positions. The aim of this study is to explore the elements of OC of HVS and to provide a basis for educators to develop the OC of HVS. In order to achieve this goal, this paper uses 2 qualitative research methods, the Delphi method and Grounded Theory. Through purposeful sampling techniques, 12 experts from 3 regions, Jiangsu, Guangdong, and Zhejiang, including college administrators, corporate personnel, outstanding graduates, and government officials, were selected to help identify and extract the components of OC of HVS. The results of the study are based on 3 dimensions—learning and innovation, career and life, and character and literacy—composed of 15 sub-components and 35 items. It is recommended to apply the list of elements in practice and emphasize its important orientation in vocational education in order to improve the OC with the needs of enterprises and personal development.

What is the occupational impact of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome for adults living in Australia?

Introduction: Occupational recovery for people living with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome requires better assessment and understanding of the occupational impact of this debilitating condition. This study explores the lived experience of Australian adults with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome using the Model of Human Occupation. Methods: The research design was a cross-sectional descriptive study, and participants were recruited via social media to complete an online survey. A Model of Human Occupation Tool, The Occupational Self-Assessment, captured an individual’s perceptions of occupational identity and competence. Results: Results were analysed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests. The free-text responses were summarised. Twenty-nine participants completed the Occupational Self-Assessment. A decrease in occupational participation across all domains was evident. Qualitative themes of loneliness, feeling confined, feeling like a burden and loss of previous life/roles were collated, showing an adverse impact on occupational identity. A lack of independence and control showed a reduction in occupational competence. Conclusions: The study confirmed the impact of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome on occupational identity and competence. These individuals struggled with occupational adaptation and would benefit from occupational support. Occupational therapists could use the Occupational Self-Assessment to identify areas of need, set goals and facilitate better occupational adaptation.

The Effects of Professional Occupational Competence Deficiencies on the TVET Lecturers: A Case Study

The quality of TVET college lecturers significantly affectsthe development and performance of students and, as a consequence, the economy. This study utilises Wenger’s theory of social learning to explore the impactof professional occupational competence deficiencies on TVET lecturersat selected public colleges in Gauteng Province, South Africa. This study aimedto explore the effects of professional occupational competence deficiencies on the TVET lecturers across selected TVET colleges in the Gauteng Province, South Africa. Central to the challenge of lecturersprofessional occupational competence deficiencies is the lack of training and development to capacitate them with the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure that they play their roles optimally in providingstudents with quality education. A case study design was adopted in this study, underpinned by a qualitative research approach. A purposive sampling technique was used to select participants from five public TVET colleges in Gauteng Province. Data were collected from fifteen sampled participants through semi-structured interviews and processed through Atlas.ti. Thematic analysis technique was used to analyse the data.The findings of this study show that due to professional occupational competence deficiencies, TVET lecturers are experiencing profound challenges such as low self-efficacy, self-regulation failure, low motivation, anger, and resentment towards college management.To improve TVET lecturers’ competence, efforts need to be made to focus on teaching professional occupational competenciesas a priority. This study outlines the challenges that professional occupational competence deficiencies pose for the TVET sector and, by implication,the national development imperatives of South Africa.

Lecturers’ Professional Occupational Competences Development at Selected Public TVET Colleges in Gauteng Province, South Africa

This study investigated the professional occupational competences of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) lecturers in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Specifically, the study examined the management and support intervention systems for lecturer development in five colleges. A multi-case study design was adopted for this qualitative research study. Purposive sampling technique was used to select fifteen participants. Semi-structured interviews were utilized to gather data, whilst thematic analysis was applied for data analysis. The findings reveal that colleges have inadequate professional occupational competence interventions in place, and that they lack the necessary management and administrative skills to facilitate effective professional occupational competence development for their lecturers. The study recommends that TVET college managers be trained appropriately to champion and model organizational learning in their institutions.

The Mediating Role of Technical Assistance in Supervisory Management and Occupational Competence of Elementary School Teachers

The Mediating Role of Technical Assistance in Supervisory Management and Occupational Competence of Elementary School Teachers

Analysis of Synergistic Effect of Energy Efficiency Improvement and Vocational Competence Development

INTRODUCTION: Growing global energy demand and constant competition for energy resources have made energy efficiency a focus of international attention. At the same time, occupational competency development is crucial for sustained individual and overall economic growth.OBJECTIVES: This study explores the synergistic effects of energy efficiency improvement and occupational competence development to inform policy-making and business strategies.METHODS: A literature review summarises relevant theories and research progress on energy efficiency improvement and occupational capability development. Then, the relationship between energy efficiency improvement and vocational ability development was analyzed in depth using econometric models and a large amount of empirical data.RESULTS: There is a significant positive association between energy efficiency improvement and vocational ability development. Specifically, improving energy efficiency not only reduces the cost of energy consumption and enhances productivity but also helps promote technological innovation and industrial upgrading, which in turn enhances the level of occupational ability of workers. In turn, improving occupational ability further encourages technological innovation and productivity in enterprises, forming a virtuous circle and promoting the sustainable development of the economy.CONCLUSION: This study reveals the synergistic effect between energy efficiency improvement and vocational competence development, emphasizing the critical role of energy efficiency improvement and vocational competence development in promoting economic growth and achieving sustainable development.

Segmenting tourism graduates’ perceived utility of occupational competence and job change intention

Segmenting tourism graduates’ perceived utility of occupational competence and job change intention

Psychometric properties of the Bengali-Translated Occupational Self-Assessment Short Form

Introduction: The Occupational Self-Assessment-Short Form (OSA-SF) is a client-centered instrument designed to assess goal setting and intervention planning for adults with a client-centered approach. This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Bengali-translated Occupational Self-Assessment-Short Form (BOSA-SF), which could enable occupational therapists to evaluate the occupational competence and value of Bengali adults. Method: A total of 170 adult participants participated in the study after the translation phase. The data were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch analysis. Results: Among the 12 items, 11 on the competence scale and all 12 on the value scale were unidimensional and demonstrated local independence. The 11 competence items and 12 value items were fitted to the Rasch model, demonstrating good validity and reliability. Conclusion: The 11-item BOSA-SF demonstrates to be a valid and reliable tool for use in client-centered goal setting and intervention planning for Bengali adults. Nonetheless, further research is warranted to conduct more comprehensive analyses that thoroughly assess the functions of the BOSA-SF in various contexts.

An exploration into the occupational identity of women following breast cancer and treatment: A qualitative study

Introduction: The number of women surviving after breast cancer is increasing, along with the length of time they are living with the after-effects of treatment. Although the treatment’s effects are known to impact occupational participation, little is known about how breast cancer could affect occupational identity. This study aims to illuminate the lived experience of women long-term after breast cancer treatment through an occupational perspective in order to explore how they perceive their occupational identity. Methods: A qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was conducted with six women, who had all received a diagnosis of breast cancer and treatment for longer than a year. Reflexive Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings: Three intertwined themes describe the participants’ experience. (1) ‘Disruptions in daily life and Environmental support’, (2) ‘Be able to do’ and identity, and (3) ‘Doing what matters and is possible’. Findings revealed that the occupational identities of the participants were maintained. Cancer treatment effects appear to impact occupational competence that corresponded to participants’ occupational identities, suggesting difficulties in the order of occupational adaptation. Conclusion: Our findings contribute to understanding the challenges to occupational participation related to the occupational identity of women following breast cancer and treatment.

Comparing Telerehabilitation and In-Person Interventions in School-Based Occupational Therapy for Specific Learning Disorder A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study investigated the efficacy of telerehabilitation (TR) in school-based Occupational Therapy (OT) for children with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD), focusing on occupational competence and parental satisfaction, aiming to contribute empirical insights to the discourse on the educational well-being of this population. The study adopted a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) design involving 31 children diagnosed with SLD, implementing TR and in-person interventions alongside a control group. Outcome measures included the School Self-Concept Inventory, Child Occupational Self-Assessment (COSA), and Canadian Occupational Performance Measurement (COMP), analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (ANOVA, post hoc tests). Both TR and in-person interventions exhibited significant enhancements in academic self-efficacy (F=23.96, p<0.001, Partial ȵ²=0.461), occupational competence (F=70.59, p<0.001, Partial ȵ²=0.716), and parent satisfaction (F=17.03, p<0.001, Partial ȵ²=0.378) compared to the control group. Notably, no significant differences emerged between the TR and in-person groups, emphasizing their comparable effectiveness in improving outcomes. In conclusion, the study demonstrated the efficacy of TR and in-person interventions in school-based OT for children with SLD. The cohesive outcomes in academic self-efficacy, occupational competence, and parental satisfaction highlight TR as a versatile modality. This research, grounded in robust methodology, encourages further exploration of TR's transformative role in enhancing the holistic well-being of children with SLDs.

İnsan Aktivite Modeli Temelli Ergoterapi Müdahalesinin Aile İçi Şiddet Yaşayan Kadınlarda Etkinliği

Purpose: Experiences of violence negatively affect women's independence and daily activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the "Model of Human Occupation (MOHO)"-based occupational therapy intervention on the occupational competence and occupational participation of women affected by domestic violence and living in a women's shelter. Materials and Methods: The MOHO-based occupational therapy program, which includes 10 intervention areas, was applied to 13 women in two women’s shelters. Four-week (16 sessions) individual and group training and environmental interventions were provided. Participants' occupational competence was assessed with the “Occupational Self-Assessment” and occupational participation with the “Model of Human Occupation Screening Tool”. Assessments were conducted before the intervention, after the intervention, and at the 3-month follow-up. Results: Statistically significant differences were found in occupational competence (p=0.002) and occupational participation (p=0.004) between pre-intervention and 3-month follow-up assessments. Improvements were noted in all domains (OSA-competence, and volution, habituation, communication-interaction, process skills, and environment parameters of MOHOST) (p0.05). Discussion: MOHO-based occupational therapy interventions delivered in women's shelters could have a positive impact on the occupational competence and occupational participation of women experiencing violence.

Cross-Cultural Adaptation, Reliability, and Convergent Validity of Occupational Self-Assessment for Brazilian Portuguese.

The Occupational Self-Assessment version 2.2 (OSA) is a self-assessment of the client's occupational competence and values. To describe the process of cross-cultural adaptation of OSA into Brazilian Portuguese (OSA-Brazil) and examine its reliability and validity for use with the Brazilian population. Assessment translation was guided by two international guidelines for cross-cultural adaptation of standardized instruments. Face validity was tested with 24 participants. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity were tested with a convenience sample of 40 participants. The cross-cultural adaptation process concluded with a consensus among the expert panel review (r > 80%) and evidence of strong face validity. The OSA-Brazil demonstrated appropriate test-retest reliability (r > 0.70) and convergent validity with the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) (p < .05). The OSA-Brazil has good face validity, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity. The assessment can be used by the Brazilian occupational therapists to assess client's occupational competence.

Exploring the Impact of an Occupational Therapy Program for Former Sex Workers: A Mixed Methods Pilot Study

This mixed-methods pilot study explored the impact of the Coping for Living a Healthy Life (CLHL) program, an occupational therapy intervention focused on teaching coping skills to former sex workers. Two former sex workers between the ages of 18-41 participated in an online six-session CLHL program. Participants completed six questionnaires and two interviews regarding occupational competence, balance, and coping skills before and after CLHL. Results indicated progression toward increased occupational balance and a sense of competence through engaging in healing by utilizing healthy coping skills. Further investigation on the effectiveness of coping skills programs for former sex workers appears warranted.

Beyond the artisan trade test: Using the COMET Model to build occupational competence

The South African trade test is a mandatory end-point assessment that certifies an apprentice to practise as a qualified artisan after a specified period of training. Whereas the manufacturing sector has relied on the traditional trade test to provide assurance of an artisan candidate’s required level of competence, recent competence-development studies based on the COMET Model of competence development and measurement have challenged the ability of traditional task-based trade tests to prepare candidates adequately for integrated work processes. Studies in other contexts have shown the potential for COMET-based assessments not only to serve as a means of measuring competence, but also to develop it. This article reports on research that investigated how, through the application of COMET assessments, occupational competencies were developed beyond those measured by the traditional apprentice trade test. A mixed-methods, quasiexperimental approach produced strong evidence that COMET-inspired authentic assessments enhanced learners’ levels of competence and developed vocational identity among candidates who undertook such preparation for a trade test.