What is its purpose?

The SPEF-R^© is designed to evaluate the performance of occupational therapy students completing block practice placements. It was developed to be graded pass/fail with an emphasis on providing students with feedback that is helpful, objective and specific.
 

For what length of practice placement is it used?

Because of its comprehensive nature, and the emphasis placed on sufficiency of observation to substantiate ratings and feedback, the SPEF-R^© is most suitable for block practice placements of at least five weeks duration, which typically occur in the later year/s of occupational therapy curricular.

For practice placements of lesser duration, some universities have negotiated a license to use a shortened version, with key domains selected as appropriate to the practice objectives. If in doubt if this type of license is in place, check with the affiliated university.
 

When is it completed?

The SPEF-R^© is formally completed and presented at halfway and again in the final week of practice placements. However, the learning objectives and corresponding items can be used during orientation, and in an ongoing way throughout the practice placement as a planning tool and to facilitate clear communication and feedback.

Next ---> The Structure of the SPEF-R^©