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Policies

Philosophy Statement

The Journal of Emerging Scholars in Occupational Therapy (JESOT) is founded on the belief that knowledge is enriched when diverse voices are heard and nurtured. We believe that novice scholars, such as, emerging researchers, early-career professionals, and students have unique insights, fresh perspectives, and untapped potential that can meaningfully shape the future of the occupational therapy profession.

JESOT views scholarly publishing not only as a destination for completed work but also as a learning process—one that fosters growth, mentorship, and collaboration. We aim to make academic publishing a supportive, accessible space where emerging scholars can learn, reflect, and contribute meaningfully to the profession. Through this philosophy, we aim to cultivate a culture of lifelong learning and critical engagement that honors the dynamic, evolving nature of occupational therapy.

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Author Guidelines

The Journal of Emerging Scholars in Occupational Therapy (JESOT) publishes original manuscripts written by emerging scholars (e.g. occupational therapy students, new academic occupational therapy practitioners) in the following categories:

  • Original Research: includes 250-word maximum abstract, background information, method and procedures, results, discussion, and conclusion. A statement of ethic approval must be included.
    Format: Maximum 7500 words, double spaced, excluding title page, abstract, tables and figures, and references.
  • Knowledge Translation Program Development and Outcomes: reports on new programs and their outcomes. Articles on the use of evidence in program development, emerging practice areas, community practice, advocacy efforts, or technological innovations used in the delivery of practice will be prioritized.
    Format: Maximum 4500 words, double spaced, excluding title page, abstract, and references.
  • New Practitioner Perspectives: manuscripts describing the new practitioner's experiences and views as they are socialized to the profession and establish a role identity as an occupational therapy practitioner.
    Format: 2000 words, double spaced, excluding title page, abstract, and references.

Manuscripts must not be submitted elsewhere, in press, or published.

Publishing Fee: There are no fees associated with submission or publication

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Submission Requirements

Each submission should include the following:

  • Cover letter explaining how the manuscript meets the aim and scope of the journal.
  • Title page including author(s). The primary author will be the corresponding author.
  • Abstract (250-word maximum)
  • 3-5 keywords
    • Original research must include background information, method and procedure, including statement of ethical approval and informed consent obtained, results, discussion, and conclusion.
    • Program Development and Outcomes must include the identified need for the program, program implementation, program assessment, recommendations, and conclusion.
    • New Practitioner Perspectives 0-5 YEARS EXPERIENCE in a setting or intervention; recommended resources; lessons learned; insights; background information, description of setting, insights/lessons; recommended resources

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    Format

    All submitted manuscripts must follow the latest edition of the American Psychological Association Publication Manual for scholarly writing with 1” margins on all 4 sides in Arial 10-point font. All manuscripts (excluding references) must be double-spaced. Include numbered lines and pages to aid the reviewer(s).

    Refer to the latest edition of APA for citations, references, headings, quotations, tables, and figures for formatting. Place tables and figures within the narrative of the manuscript, numbered in order of appearance. All tables and figures must be referred to in the narrative.

    Submit one copy of the manuscript without any identifying information (remove authors, replace any identifying information with the word "BLINDED").

    Submit Manuscript

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    Review Process Overview

    At JESOT, we aim to make the review process supportive and educational—especially for first-time authors. Every submission goes through the following steps:

    1. Initial Screening by Editorial Team – Checked for fit, formatting, and completeness
    2. Assigned to Reviewers – Double-anonymous peer review
    3. Decision – Accept, revise and resubmit, or reject (with feedback)
    4. Revisions – Authors revise based on reviewer comments
    5. Final Review – Re-evaluated before final decision
    6. Copyediting – Accepted articles are edited and prepared for publication

    We provide detailed, respectful feedback at every stage to help authors grow in their writing and scholarship.

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