From knowledge and evidence to models and application

Positivism

• Only scientifically and empirically verifiable facts or directly observable and measurable facts are knowledge –everything else is nonexistence.

• Science is seen as a way to get to a truth, to understand phenomena well enough so we can predict and control them

• Researcher and the subject are independent from one another

Post-positivism

• Seeks objectivity but rejects the strict tenets of positivism

• Acknowledges the existence of a physical world, but argues that knowledge of it is constructed through human consciousness and language

• Accepts that reality exists, but can only ever be known imperfectly • Recognizes that theories, background, prior knowledge, and the researcher’s values influence what is observed

Constructivism

• Reality is a human construct and knowledge is constructed through our intelligence, experiences and interactions with the world

• Set of approaches and theories, each of which places a particular emphasis on the way that people may experience and understand the world

Critical theory

• Is about looking closely at society and culture to uncover unfair systems and challenge them.

• Instead of blaming individuals for problems, it shows how larger structures (like policies, institutions, or cultural beliefs) often shape those problems.

(Problems often come from structures and culture (e.g., policies, discrimination, inequality), not just individuals)

• The goal is to empower people and help free them from situations that hold them back - much like leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. worked to do.

Evidence-based practice

use of current best evidence in making decisions about the care of individual patients. The practice of evidence-based medicine means integrating individual clinical expertise with the best available external clinical evidence from systematic research

Integration of best research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient value

Why Theory Matters in OT

• Guides Practice

• Makes Complexity Visible

• Connects to evidence

• Makes reasoning explicit

• Elevates OT

Determinants of occupation

• Physical

• Social cultural

• Environmental

• Psychological emotional

• Cognitive neurological

5 lenses to help us to focus and help us select the right theory and the right tools

1. The occupational performance problems experienced by the client;

2. The lifespan or developmental perspective of the client;

3. The probable origins of the problem, and the factors underlying occupational performance problems;

4. The practice tools available for therapy; and,

5. The outcomes we expect to see at the conclusion of a course of therap

What is a model

A statement or an organized and synthesized body of knowledge which demonstrates relationships between elements within the model and between theory and practice and coordinates the application of relevant approaches and techniques

Function and structure of a good model for practice

1. Accurately reflects human performance in the real world/Explains the phenomena being studied

2. Understandable to someone who is reasonably competent

3. Explains past events and predicts future ones

4. Offers practical guidance in solving everyday problems

5. Stimulates the discovery of knowledge

6. Gives explanations that makes sense/are satisfying

7. Is internally consistent