Research Methods in Occupational Therapy

Vocabulary flashcards covering quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research designs for occupational therapy scenarios.

Scenario A: Kids & Technology

A research scenario focusing on children with ADHD who struggle with handwriting in school, evaluating whether a new tablet-based writing app genuinely aids learning or if children simply prefer screen-based activities.

Scenario B: Stroke & Home

A research scenario focusing on stroke survivors who want to cook independently again while family members are concerned about safety, noting that adaptive cooking programs exist but many drop out.

Scenario C: Work & Mental Health

A research scenario examining young adults with anxiety who call in sick or quit jobs suddenly, seeking to determine which workplace accommodations work best for whom.

Scenario D: Seniors & Driving

A research scenario addressing older adults with mild cognitive changes who want to keep driving despite safety concerns from family and doctors.

Hydraulic Dynamometer

The measurement tool designated in the quantitative approach to test the grip strength of adult stroke survivors.

Quantitative Study Design (Scenario B)

A study measuring grip strength in $30+$ adult stroke survivors using a hydraulic dynamometer, where a good result is defined as lifting a $5\text{ lb}$ pan.

Qualitative Study Design (Scenario B)

A study asking $20$ adult stroke survivors about their cooking comfort, the hardest parts of cooking, and movement pattern struggles to identify themes of independence and movement difficulty.

Quantitative Research Question (Scenario B)

"How does the weight of the cooking tools impact client safety in the kitchen?" (or impact client independence in the kitchen).

Qualitative Research Question (Scenario B)

"How comfortable do the participants feel when independently cooking food following adaptive cooking programs?"

Limitation of Quantitative-Only Approach

Conducting only the quantitative study misses understanding why participants find importance in cooking independently or cooking in general.

Limitation of Qualitative-Only Approach

Conducting only the qualitative study misses objective measurements of the patients' physical capabilities in relation to ability or tool weight.

Complementary / Mixed-Methods Approach

Combining quantitative and qualitative approaches to evaluate both the physical and mental aspects of cooking and gain a complete understanding of client goals.

2-Minute Lightning Presentation Format

A presentation format divided into four 30-second segments: 1) Describe research problem, 2) Share quantitative approach, 3) Share qualitative approach, and 4) Explain why both together are powerful.

OT Practice Application

The practical utility of combining quantitative and qualitative research to provide occupational therapy practitioners with effective resources when helping individuals conduct Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).