Evaluating Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Education and Practice: A Qualitative SWOT Study in the Philippines

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Title: Evaluating Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Education and Practice: A Qualitative SWOT Study in the Philippines
Language: English
Authors: Paolo Miguel P. Bulan, Janice A. Rojas, John Ray O. Suerte, Nikki Y. Pestaño, Maria Menierva G. Lagria, Cristito P. Dimitiman, April Grace A. Chiongbian, Frances Vince E. Dimitiman, Martina Nicole A. Ligutom, Debbie Rose D. Cabañero, Jay Arr M. Sale
Source: Journal of Occupational Therapy Education. 2025 9(1).
Availability: Journal of Occupational Therapy Education. 521 Lancaster Avenue, Richmond, KY 40475. e-mail: jote@eku.edu; Web site: https://encompass.eku.edu/jote/
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 25
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Entry Workers, Occupational Therapy, Allied Health Occupations Education, Allied Health Personnel, Bachelors Degrees, Program Evaluation, Colleges, Teacher Attitudes, Student Attitudes, College Faculty, College Students, Alumni, Foreign Countries, School Community Relationship, Strategic Planning, Research Methodology, Interprofessional Relationship, Curriculum
Geographic Terms: Philippines
ISSN: 2573-1378
Abstract: Occupational therapy education plays a pivotal role in equipping professionals to meet the dynamic demands of healthcare systems. This study evaluated the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSOT) program at Velez College in the Philippines, utilizing a qualitative analysis framework to explore its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) as perceived by educators, students, alumni, and practitioners. Findings highlight the program's robust generalist curriculum, strong community-based partnerships, and interprofessional collaboration opportunities. However, challenges such as limited access to standardized assessment tools, high educator turnover, and insufficient specialization opportunities were identified. Notably, emerging demands in mental health and holistic care present growth opportunities for the program, alongside the need to address persistent threats such as brain drain and financial barriers. By leveraging strategies like expanding mental health training, fostering educator retention, and integrating stakeholder-driven curriculum revisions, the program can enhance its relevance and sustainability. This study underscores the importance of program evaluations in informing adaptive educational strategies that align with global and local healthcare needs. Future research needs to explore the longterm impacts of such initiatives on graduate outcomes and workforce retention.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1459992
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Occupational therapy education plays a pivotal role in equipping professionals to meet the dynamic demands of healthcare systems. This study evaluated the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSOT) program at Velez College in the Philippines, utilizing a qualitative analysis framework to explore its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) as perceived by educators, students, alumni, and practitioners. Findings highlight the program's robust generalist curriculum, strong community-based partnerships, and interprofessional collaboration opportunities. However, challenges such as limited access to standardized assessment tools, high educator turnover, and insufficient specialization opportunities were identified. Notably, emerging demands in mental health and holistic care present growth opportunities for the program, alongside the need to address persistent threats such as brain drain and financial barriers. By leveraging strategies like expanding mental health training, fostering educator retention, and integrating stakeholder-driven curriculum revisions, the program can enhance its relevance and sustainability. This study underscores the importance of program evaluations in informing adaptive educational strategies that align with global and local healthcare needs. Future research needs to explore the longterm impacts of such initiatives on graduate outcomes and workforce retention.
ISSN:2573-1378