Date of Completion
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
Keywords
Career Choice
Abstract
The research conducted by Occupational Therapy students at De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute focused on determining the factors that influence first year students in choosing the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSOT) program. The study utilized a qualitative descriptive approach, involving interviews and reflexive thematic analysis. The objectives were to identify the supports, barriers, and needs influencing first year students' choice of the BSOT program, and to examine the implications of these factors on prospective program selection practices for students. Purposive sampling ensured participants met the study's criteria, while validators and pilot testing confirmed the validity of the research tool. Procedures involved online surveys, formal invitations, consent collection, one-on-one interviews, data coding for thematic analysis, and triangulation to ensure qualitative rigor. The results of the study revealed several themes per objective. There were key factors that supported participants in choosing the program, including Individual influences, Elements of the profession, Social-environmental influences, and Pathways to discovering OT. On the contrary, barriers emphasized Perceptual barriers, Recruitment and institutional limitations, Social hindrances, and Internal conflicts, which may have discouraged participants from choosing the program. The participants also expressed specific needs during the program selection process, which included the Need for strengthened OT promotion and immersive experiences, the Need for support systems, and the Need for enhanced institutional application strategies. While the implications of these factors suggest Elevating OT promotion and marketing, Strengthening OT recruitment activities, and Having intrinsic support, to better assist students during their program selection process.
First Advisor
Louise Odeth Leosala Lanuza, OTRP, MAEd, PhD
APA Citation
Colocado, P. P.,
Aguirre, S. S.,
Andico, E. M.,
Brimon, J. O.,
Campanero, K. A.,
Chy, E. G.,
Daniolco, P. S.,
Pedro, F. G.,
&
Rodriguez, J. T.
(2025).
Exploring the factors that influence first year students in choosing Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy program: a qualitative descriptive study.
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy.
Retrieved from https://greenprints.dlshsi.edu.ph/bsot/80