Frequently Asked Questions

1. I can’t afford continuing education, what can I do?
   Attendance at workshops and conferences is only one way to maintain your competence. For example, some occupational therapists set a monthly schedule to review journal articles, which can be done individually or through ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions with other therapists.
    
2. The college sent two copies of the Professional Development Plan forms. Do I keep one and send the other back to the college?
   Only the Continuing Competency Declaration form needs to be returned by February 15 of each year. Completed Self-Assessments and Professional Development Plans should be kept for five years but do not have to be sent into the college. Two copies of the form were sent to each registrant for convenience. Please use one form for each learning goal.
    
3. I am meeting most of the competencies but there are some in which I would like to excel. Can I focus my professional development plan on these?
   By all means, in this case you would check off both “I meet consistently,” and “I need or want to improve.”
    
4. I’m not in a “hands-on” clinical position so the Essential Competencies don’t apply.
   Occupational therapists assume many roles. Here are examples of learning goals developed by occupational therapists in indirect service provision or professional development roles:
    
   • Administrator
     Learning goal: By March 2007, I will be able to analyze and accurately interpret my rehabilitation services budget reports and respond fully to questions regarding budget variances. (Competency Unit VII. Manages the Practice Environment, Item 20a)
      
   • Sales Rep
     Learning goal: By June 2007, I will review Drawing the Line: Guidelines for Establishing Professional Boundaries to Prevent Sexual Misconduct and, together with colleagues, set policies on taking clients to lunch and giving gifts. (Competency Unit 1: Assume Professional Responsibility, Item 4c)
      
   • Educator
     Learning goal: By September 2007, I will have submitted at least two papers on my doctoral research to relevant scientific journals. (Competency Unit V: Communicate Effectively, Item 16a.)