What is a Model of Practice?

A model of practice is a framework that organizes evidence-informed practices within a specific field (Chapin Hall, n.d.). It is rooted in the philosophical foundation of the profession and provides practitioners with a shared language, a comprehensive understanding of the field, assessment tools, and a roadmap for intervention.

Key Facts

  1. A model of practice helps practitioners in a specific field, such as child welfare or occupational therapy, to organize their thinking and approach to practice.
  2. It is based on the philosophical foundation of the profession and provides practitioners with terms to describe practice, an overall view of the profession, tools for evaluation, and a guide for intervention.
  3. Models of practice ensure a systematic examination of the client and support evidence-based practice.
  4. There are different models of practice in various fields. For example, in occupational therapy, the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO), the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance (CMOP), the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model, and Occupational Adaptation are some of the well-known models.
  5. Models of practice are continuously researched and developed to improve the effectiveness of interventions and outcomes for clients.

Importance of Models of Practice

Models of practice play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and effectiveness of interventions. They:

  • Organize thinking and approach to practice: Models of practice help practitioners structure their thoughts and actions, ensuring a systematic and consistent approach to client care (InclusionED, n.d.).
  • Provide a comprehensive view of the profession: They offer a holistic understanding of the field, encompassing its values, principles, and scope of practice (Chapin Hall, n.d.).
  • Facilitate evidence-based practice: Models of practice are grounded in research and evidence, guiding practitioners in selecting appropriate interventions supported by empirical data (Chapin Hall, n.d.).

Examples of Models of Practice

Different fields utilize various models of practice. In occupational therapy, for instance, well-established models include:

  • Model of Human Occupation (MOHO): Focuses on volition, habituation, performance, and environment to understand occupational performance (Kielhofner, 2008).
  • Canadian Model of Occupational Performance (CMOP): Emphasizes spirituality, person, environment, and occupations, promoting client-centered care (Townsend & Polatajko, 2007).
  • Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model: Defines the relationship between the person, environment, occupation, and performance, highlighting their interactive nature (Christiansen & Baum, 2005).
  • Occupational Adaptation: Examines how individuals adapt to their environment through changes in the person, environment, or task, emphasizing compensatory techniques if necessary (Schkade & Schultz, 1992).

Continuous Development and Improvement

Models of practice are not static but undergo ongoing research and development. This ensures that they remain relevant, effective, and aligned with the latest evidence and best practices. By continuously refining and updating models of practice, professionals can enhance the quality of interventions and improve outcomes for clients.

References

  • Chapin Hall. (n.d.). Building a Practice Model. https://www.chapinhall.org/project/building-a-practice-model/
  • Christiansen, C. H., & Baum, C. M. (2005). The Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model: A transactive approach to occupational performance. Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72(1), 3-9.
  • InclusionED. (n.d.). Models of Practice. https://www.inclusioned.edu.au/projects/models-of-practice
  • Kielhofner, G. (2008). Model of Human Occupation: Theory and application. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
  • Nurse Key. (n.d.). Models of Practice and Frames of Reference. https://nursekey.com/models-of-practice-and-frames-of-reference/
  • Schkade, J. K., & Schultz, S. (1992). Occupational adaptation: Toward a holistic approach. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 46(12), 1099-1108.
  • Townsend, E. A., & Polatajko, H. J. (2007). Enabling occupation: An occupational therapy perspective. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

FAQs

What is a model of practice?

A model of practice is a framework that organizes evidence-informed practices within a specific field, providing practitioners with a shared language, a comprehensive understanding of the field, assessment tools, and a roadmap for intervention.

Why are models of practice important?

Models of practice ensure a systematic and consistent approach to practice, promote evidence-based interventions, and provide a comprehensive view of the profession.

What are some examples of models of practice?

Examples of models of practice include the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) and the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance (CMOP) in occupational therapy, the Transtheoretical Model in health behavior change, and the Person-Centered Planning model in social work.

How are models of practice developed?

Models of practice are typically developed through a combination of research, theory, and expert consensus. They are continuously refined and updated to ensure their relevance and effectiveness.

Who uses models of practice?

Models of practice are used by practitioners in various fields, including healthcare, education, social work, and occupational therapy.

What are the benefits of using models of practice?

Benefits of using models of practice include improved client outcomes, enhanced practitioner competence, and increased consistency and quality of interventions.

Are models of practice mandatory?

The use of models of practice may vary depending on the field and specific organization. However, they are widely recognized as valuable tools for improving the effectiveness and quality of interventions.

How can I learn more about models of practice?

You can learn more about models of practice by reading professional literature, attending workshops and conferences, and consulting with experts in the field.