OCCT2001 Introduction to Occupational Science

This topic provides an introduction to occupational science, a study of humans as occupational beings. Students will examine the relationship between occupation, health and well being at both individual and societal levels. Concepts such as occupational balance, occupational development, and occupational deprivation will be examined in humans with some reference to antecedents in primates. The impact of variables such as the environment, culture, resources and opportunities on occupational performance will be explored.

This topic aims to introduce students to the study of humans as occupational beings and the links between participation, occupation and well-being.

1. Define occupational science
2. Describe the major concepts of occupational science
3. Describe the relationship between occupation, health and wellbeing at an introductory level
4. Search for and locate occupational science literature
5. Describe the role and impact of occupation in human development
6. Apply the concepts and findings of occupational science in analysing people’s time use and occupational choices
7. Analyse the effect of different environments on patterns of occupation