Profile of occupational therapy students at public higher education institutions in Brazil: an analysis of the relationship between work and study

Abstract

Introduction: This study analysed the profile of undergraduate occupational therapy students at Brazilian public institutions, focusing on the relationship between study and work. In addition, the study explores the different interactions between the roles of student and worker, considering variables such as age, gender, ethnoracial background, and educational trajectory. Objective: To compare the profile of students who balance work and study with that of full-time students in occupational therapy programs at public institutions in Brazil. Method: This crosssectional quantitative study involved students from public institutions completing an online questionnaire on demographic, academic, and professional characteristics. Multiple correspondence analyses (MCA) were conducted to construct profiles, and (binomial) logistic regressions were performed to investigate the relationship between socioeconomic and academic variables, using software programs. Results: A total of 277 students from the five regions of Brazil participated. The MCA revealed distinct regional profiles. In the national profile, White students tended not to work, not to be quota students, to have attended private schools, and not to receive student financial aid, whereas Black and Brown students were more likely to be quota students, to have attended public schools, to receive aid, and to work. Binomial logistic regression indicated that working increases the likelihood of failing courses, not participating in academic projects, and withdrawing from courses. In addition, Black and Brown individuals have a higher likelihood of failing courses than White individuals. Conclusion: The study showed not only the influence of work but also that of ethnoracial background on the everyday lives of occupational therapy students at public institutions in Brazil.