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?

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

What might baking mean to me as a practicing occupational therapist?

I stole some ideas for this section from our groupwork text: Group dynamics in occupational therapy.  In Appendix D of this book, there are performance areas, components, and contexts.  I've made a diagram below with examples of what might apply when baking.

The performance components section has just some examples.  When I really started to think about it, there is so much involved!  Apart from the shop beforehand, just reading and memorising the recipe, maintaining your body in a neutral posture, having physical ability to stir and lift, being able to measure accurately, the list goes on...

Also, if you are in the kitchen, there is often a social aspect.  People gather around, often brought in by a (hopefully) delicious smell, and hover until they can try whatever you are making.



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