RESEARCHING THE HISTORY OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY USING DOCUMENTARY SOURCES

Background: Historical research can facilitate deeper understandings of the occupational therapy profession (Hall 2013). For occupational therapists interested in researching the history of the profession, it is essential that... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Historical research can facilitate deeper understandings of the occupational therapy profession (Hall 2013). For occupational therapists interested in researching the history of the profession, it is essential that high quality research methods are employed. This paper will present guidelines for conducting historical documentary research, which is a widely used method in historical research.
Method:
A literature review was conducted to gather relevant material concerning historical documentary research methods. The literature was synthesised to develop a suggested step-by-step approach to historical research using documents.
Results:
The review revealed a number of steps for conducting historical research, including choosing a topic, selecting sources, managing data and assessing quality. Markers of quality in historical research include authenticity, credibility and representativeness. Finally, the meaning of the material can be ascertained.
Conclusion:
Sheehan suggests that ‘what we learn from history depends entirely on how we do it’ (2005, p.6). Applying high quality methodological standards to historical research will improve the outcomes of the research and their resulting application to current theory and practice.
Application to Practice:
The guidelines may be useful for those interested in conducting documentary research on the history of occupational therapy.