Paving the Path: Investigating the Impact of Early Career Education on Occupational Therapy (OT) and Understanding the Barriers of Underrepresented Minorities in their Pursuit of a Career in OT
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Hayley Foglia
CoPIs:
Kattleya Go, Weisser Millien, Rachel Pierre, Antonella Rubio
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Occupational Therapy
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Victor Camacho
Abstract:
The ethnic/racial makeup of the allied healthcare professions, specifically occupational therapy (OT), lacks concordance with the U.S. population, specifically with those who seek healthcare services. Diversification of the occupational therapy field will lead to improved patient care and decrease healthcare disparities resulting in overall improved patient health outcomes for underrepresented minority (URM) communities. This research study aims to understand the impact and feasibility of early vocational exposure for Latino and/or Hispanic and Black and/or African American undergraduate students through a one-day experiential learning program to explore areas of the occupational therapy field. The population for this study is Kean University undergraduate students who are at least 18 years old, classified as a freshman or sophomore, are proficient in either English and/or Spanish, and self-report their racial/ethnic identity as Black and/or African American or Hispanic and/or Latino. This single-group research study with a pre/post survey design explored barriers URM undergraduate students faced entering higher education, their knowledge of OT, interest in OT, and self-efficacy in pursuing a career in OT. Participants who completed the pre-survey were invited to attend a 90-minute educational, interactive, hands-on learning experience about occupational therapy. Pre-program data reports participants having an interest in occupational therapy, however, having limited knowledge, and a low sense of confidence in pursuing a career in occupational therapy. Post-program participant data displayed an increase in interest, knowledge, and self-efficacy in pursuing a career in OT as a result of attending the program. This research serves to inform future healthcare pipeline programs of the value of equipping URM students with the knowledge and resources needed to address their own barriers to education. Programs that follow this structure can support students in making an informed career choice. The study limitations include a small sample size due to limited attendance, affecting generalizability, and exploration of heterogeneity. Future vocational exploration programs should consider the length of programming, providing more accessible time frames for individuals with different availability, and virtual programming.