Attitudes of entry level occupational therapy doctoral students towards inclusion for students with disabilities

Background/Aims: The increasing popularity of inclusive education for students with disabilities and the attitudes towards it inevitably affect school-based occupational therapy practice. This survey study investigated the attitudes of entry-level occupational therapy doctoral (EOTD) students towards inclusive education and the effect of professional education on their perception. Methods: A total of 62 EOTD students responded to a self-developed questionnaire, Attitudes and Inclusive Education Survey, yielding a response rate of 91.25. Results: Results of the study revealed that entry level occupational therapy doctoral students have positive attitudes towards inclusive education and believe that the inclusion movement has an inevitable impact on school-based occupational therapy practice. Professional education in occupational therapy might positively affect students'attitudes. Conclusion: Given the close association between one's attitude and behaviour, the findings of the study are particularly encouraging. Future research needs to further examine school-based occupational therapy practice in inclusive environments.