This #OTalk is hosted by Beverley Turtle (@bevaturtle)
This #OTalk is going to cover an important step in the research process, finding the gap. While it is hard to define what the “research gap” is (Nyanchoka 2019), it is seen as an area where there is missing or insufficient evidence to answer a research question. The gap could be in knowledge available, the sample under investigation or the type of research method used. All research projects must address a gap to ensure the generation of new knowledge and contribute to the evidence-base. Furthermore, while a gap may easily, or not so easily, be developed, the research must be worthwhile and important to relevant stakeholders.
It is also important to be mindful that the identification of a gap may not be restricted to research, with audits providing a way to identify “gaps” and avenues for quality improvement in clinical practice (Royal College of Occupational Therapists 2019). Finding the gap may seem like an insurmountable task, however this #OTalk provides an opportunity to think about what constitutes a research gap and help break down a necessary step in research development.
Questions
- What is your understanding of a “research gap”?
- What methods have you used to identify a “research gap”?
- What are the gaps you have found in your department, and has this led to research?
- How do you make the leap between identifying a research gap to a research question?
- What tips do you have for those working to identify the gap in their area?
References
Nyanchoka, L., Tudur-Smith, C., Iversen, V., Tricco, A.C. and Porcher, R., 2019. A scoping review describes methods used to identify, prioritize and display gaps in health research. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, 109, pp.99-110.
Royal College of Occupational Therapists, (2019) Royal College of Occupational Therapists Research and Development Strategy 2019-2024. London: RCOT.
POST CHAT
Host: Beverley Turtle (@bevaturtle)
Evidence your CPD. If you joined in this chat you can download the below transcript as evidence for your CPD, but remember the HCPC are interested in what you have learnt. So why not complete one of our reflection logs to evidence your learning?
HCPC Standards for CPD.
- Maintain a continuous, up-to-date and accurate record of their CPD activities.
- Demonstrate that their CPD activities are a mixture of learning activities relevant to current or future practice.
- Seek to ensure that their CPD has contributed to the quality of their practice and service delivery.
- Seek to ensure that their CPD benefits the service user.
- Upon request, present a written profile (which must be their own work and supported by evidence) explaining how they have met the Standards for CPD.
OTalk 