Introduction

For the worker in the field of rehabilitation the similarities between research and evaluation are likely to be of more interest than the differences. While this chapter aims to describe a wide range of research and methodologies, including the kind of grant-supported research that is conducted by academics and professional researchers, it is also written in the belief that the rehabilitation worker can make a difference to the quality of rehabilitation through self-or unit-directed research that is closely aligned to evaluation. The results of such direct research on the part of workers in the field of rehabilitation can lead to measurable improvements in the rehabilitation of patients in their immediate care. I deliberately avoid stating all patients because, owing to limitations imposed by lack of time, finance and sometimes expertise, much self-or unit-directed research will not be generalisable to other patients. Nevertheless, the kind of direct or ‘action’ research to be described in parts of this chapter can make an extremely important contribution to our knowledge, given the current situation in which there is as yet no adequate theory of rehabilitation and not much in the way of well funded, large research studies that are generalisable. Until we have a theory that can inform practice we should welcome any form of research that chips away at ignorance in rehabilitation. It is possible, after all, that any umbrella theory will include a place for action research on the part of professional workers.

Self-or unit-directed research that is closely aligned to evaluation is essential for people working in rehabilitation because it provides feedback on the productivity of their work.