Student Research Project FAQs

Yes – this is part of the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy curriculum and every student must take part!

It is a requirement to do this project with a partner and you are expected to choose your partner. The topics come out at the end of term 2, so there will be a lot of time to find that special someone. There is an event hosted by the Student Research Committee to help with this process.

Like fieldwork placements, a list of projects will be compiled and you and your partner will have the opportunity to select your top choices. From there, a computer will match the class to projects, with the aim of giving everyone one of their top selections.

If you are very passionate about a research topic related to occupational science or occupational therapy, you can create a student-initiated project. Make sure to get started early as this will involve finding someone to supervise your work (either a U of T faculty member or a researcher in the community). If you are unsure who to contact for supervision, speak to the OCT1220 course instructor.

The scope of occupational science and occupational therapy research is broad; there are many areas to work in.

There is dedicated time to work on your project in the second year of the program (e.g., one day per week in terms 4, 5, and 6).

No. Once your research topic has been selected you will not be able to change it or switch with another pair.

You will be introduced to research methods (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, knowledge synthesis) in your first year in the program to prepare you for the project. You will learn more about your specific research methods from your research supervisors and team.

There is no formal defense process for the project; however, you will be required to present your research to your peers, research supervisors and faculty members in the department. You will be graded on your presentation and ability to answer relevant questions. You will also submit a final paper that will be graded.

All students present their research at the annual Graduate Student Research Day held in June. There are additional conferences that may be recommended by your supervisory team, including the annual Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists conference. There are conference travel awards available through the University – talk to your supervisor(s) if you are interested in applying.

The expectations to publish are outlined in the project description and are determined by your supervisor.

There are no costs associated with completing your course requirements. There may be additional costs if you choose to present at external conferences – speak to your supervisor about financial support for presenting at conferences. The Polatjko-Howell Fund supports students presenting at peer-reviewed conferences.