Research

We are discovering new ways for occupational therapy to evolve through broad and deep collaboration across the profession. As the international representative of occupational therapy, WFOT is committed to evidence-informed practice. The Research Programme seeks to support and promote the development of research evidence for responsive, ethical, culturally sensitive and contextually relevant occupational therapy practice.

The Research Programme focuses on: developing global occupational therapy research priorities through collaborative action with Member Organisations and stakeholders; facilitating collaborative networks and initiatives that uphold the values of occupation-centered, practice informed, and contextually relevant research; and partnering with Member Organisations to build local research capacity in response to national and international research priorities.

The sections below outline the work that is currently underway in the Research Programme.

Research FAQs

WFOT offers the Thelma Cardwell Foundation Award for Research, to support pilot projects or the development of innovative knowledge in occupational therapy. This Award is available to occupational therapists working in any area of occupational therapy and who are individual Members of WFOT. The call for applications is launched every two years, and the award can fund projects for up to $5,500 US.

WFOT does not offer the opportunity to purchase membership lists. You may wish to consider placing an advert in the WFOT e-newsletter which is sent directly to 15,000 subscribers.

WFOT offers the opportunity for researchers to submit a research questionnaire that will be published on WFOT’s website, giving potential access to occupational therapists around the world. WFOT does not circulate questionnaires directly to individuals or Member Organisations. The website circulation of any survey or questionnaire requires evidence that ethical approval has been granted for the study from an approved awarding institution.

WFOT does not conduct research studies. We do, however, provide support and information to Member Organisations. We encourage you to identify any available opportunities to volunteer and support your local Member Organisation.

WFOT provides opportunities for networking and developing collaborations through a number of stablished strategies. First, we invite you to prepare and submit an abstract for consideration to the WFOT Congress. With attendees from around the world, this congress provides you with the opportunity to meet and reach colleagues across continents. Second, consider joining the Occupational Therapy International Online Network (OTION), a free, online platform to communicate with fellow occupational therapists around the globe. You can find more information here. Also, consider contacting your Member Organisation to submit a brief description of your work and results to the WFOT e-newsletter.