- Description of the Research Study
- The P4C study received funding from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to examine the impact of the model in 40 schools within three school boards.
- The P4C OT Service Evaluated
- OT services delivered in the P4C model differ significantly from the type of service that occupational therapists have previously provided.
- OT Training in the Research Study
- The OTs who delivered the P4C service took part in a comprehensive educational and mentorship program developed by the research team and expert clinicians.
- Partnering for Change Evaluation Process
- The P4C model was evaluated over two years to guide further strategic planning and program implementation.
- Implementation Science Framework
- Important evidence was collected based on an Implementation Science Framework developed by the research team.
- Additional Research Activities
- Three evidence-based projects were completed during the study on topics that emerged during the larger project.
What is the Partnering for Change Study?
The Partnering for Change (P4C) Implementation and Evaluation study examined the impact of delivering the P4C model in 40 schools, within two Community Care Access Centres (CCACs) and three school boards over the course of two school years. Data were collected from educators, parents, CCAC and school systems, and occupational therapists (OTs) to: describe the children identified using this model; determine child outcomes; measure change in the capacity of educators and families to support children’s participation; and understand the costs, supports and barriers to implementation of this model.
- The P4C research project is based on an integrated approach to knowledge translation and use of participatory action research to ensure relevance to varied stakeholders who are interested in best practice for children with special needs.
- Quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were utilized to enable determination of child, parent, educator and system outcomes, and to understand the supports, barriers, and activities required for effective, transformative service delivery.
- The P4C research project is evidence-based and is supported by a multidisciplinary team of researchers.