Perceived Competence in NCTRC Job Domains among Therapeutic Recreation Interns during COVID-19

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic caused many internships during the January 2020 semester to be shifted to a virtual/ remote format. Due to the unprecedented nature of this forced shift, there was minimal consistency in how virtual/remote internships were conducted. Using a cross-sectional design, this study aimed to summarize the experiences of RT/TR interns during the COVID-19 outbreak and assess their perceived competency in the NCTRC Job Task domains. A quantitative survey was developed for interns to self-assess their perceived competence in the ten domains. Interns reported being concerned about finishing their internship and graduating yet were satisfied with the amount of support received from their site and faculty supervisors. Interns perceived their highest competency in the areas of professional relationships and awareness and advocacy. Concerns are discussed regarding the inconsistent nature of remote internships during COVID-19, as well as implications for the profession and suggestions for future research in this area.