Breanne Rowland Final EBR Reflection

During my time at Touro University Nevada, I have learned that evidence-based research is essential in practice. During my undergraduate degree, I was never exposed to a research course or the significance of research in practice. I was exposed to a small amount of research, but was never expected to conduct it myself. I have developed knowledge in the areas of research that will allow me to use research to my benefit and guide my interventions for my future occupational therapy practice. My beliefs have changed since the start of the program based on the knowledge I have gained. I have a greater understanding as to why research is so important to our society and it relevance to the occupational therapy profession. Additionally, I have a greater sense of appreciation for it after conducting my own research for group projects. Areas in which I will continue to grow in include critically reviewing articles, proficiency in citations, and my ability to conduct research. I have learned that evidence based research is critical to the field of occupational therapy and provides guidance in clinical reasoning and decision making. We as occupational therapists are continuously trying to improve the lives of others through using research in order to make informed decisions about interventions and outcomes. Our lives are dedicated to understanding and improving the lives of our clients. Occupational therapists are always striving to understand how things work and how to better attend to those in need. Through learning how to understand research and how to apply it to interventions and clinical decision making, I will become a more competent and confident therapist.