Competence unfurled: developing portfolio practice

Abstract

In this report some of the characteristics of competence are explored. Learning is identified as a feature of competence. If occupational therapists are to survive and thrive in a changing world they need to develop and use their learning skills effectively to maintain competence and to develop proficiency and expertise. Occupational therapists should take steps to document evidence of evolving competence in order to demonstrate professional growth over time, and justify continued registration with their regulatory body.

The Feasibility and Acceptability of Using a Portfolio to Assess Professional Competence

“…21,36 Clinicians should anticipate the need for regular updating of the portfolio, since the portfolio is an account of professional development in relation to the changing context of practice. 12 The strategies identified by the participants in the present study may be useful for PTs and other health professionals required to prepare a portfolio for similar purposes.…”

“…Because students noted that completing a portfolio can be time consuming and stressful, the authors cautioned that the manageability of portfolio completion needs to be considered so that completing the portfolio does not detract from clinical learning. 6 Portfolios are used to assess clinical competence in various health professions, including physical therapy, 8,[12][13][14][15][16] and to provide evidence warranting certification by specialty organizations. [17][18][19] For example, all physical therapists PTs working in Ontario are required by the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario (CPO) to maintain an up-to-date professional portfolio that includes evidence of their professional development activities as part of the Practice Assessment to evaluate continuing competency.…”

The consultative work of occupational therapists working in municipal healthcare

“…A variety of competences, skills, and experience in occupational therapy is needed to deal with complex rehabilitation activities (17,18). This obviously raises questions concerning the competence of the assistant staff.…”

“…To be competent in their consultative role, OTs need an ability to communicate; to know how and what to teach, inform, and guide older people and their relatives; and in what way and how to supervise the assistant staff (16)(17)(18). They must also be aware of different relevant strategies and choose appropriate methods in occupational therapy situations (19).…”

“…Consequently, a wide range of competences, skills, and experiences in occupational therapy are needed (17,18) to deal with complex situations in municipal healthcare (20). These factors are to ensure that older people receive essential and appropriate therapy (21).…”