About the name of the blog

Do we need forks? is a name that reflects my philosophy about technology - the first question we should ask is "Do I NEED this?" Will it make my life and meaningful occupations easier, or better in some way?
As a student (first time around), I remember reading a scene from a play set in the 1600s, where French nobles were wondering what to do with a fork. The social context meant that forks were unnecessary. In that time, people would bring a knife, use a spoon for liquids, and hands for everything else. In a different social context where people are concerned about hygiene, a fork seems relevant. Or you could just wash your hands really well before each meal.
This philosophy about technology relates well to frameworks of occupational therapy. We look at the person - do they really need this technology? - the occupation - how meaningful is this occupation and do they need technology to make it easier to participate in? - and the environment, which includes social factors - is this technology going to fit with their environment?

Saturday, March 26, 2011

Some thoughts about light...

I was inspired by this talk by Roger van der Heide, a lighting architect: Roger van der Heide at TEDxAmsterdam

When working with people who are recovering from a setback, environment is something OTs have to take into account.  A softly lit or dark room can help calm an anxious person or perhaps frighten another.  A walk in the sun can invigorate someone who is feeling down.  A trip to the theatre (an institution van der Heide credits with exploring light and setting the bar) can inspire and provide an intervention of participation in meaningful occupation.  A room with natural light will put our clients at ease.

So many things to think about for when we get to practice!
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