Lifelong learning as a meaningful occupation

I’ve always thought that I was going to be an eternal student as I love learning about new things, delving deep into a topic of interest and putting knowledge into practice. Recently I have been reflecting on what learning brings to my life and the answer is meaning. Learning gives my life meaning and I …

J is for Journals

In this blog, I offer some reflections and suggestions on the value of engaging with scientific journals as part of our educational and professional development.  Who are journals for? You may be a student who is developing knowledge and critical understanding of occupational therapy and/or occupational science; you may be a researcher who is contributing …

OT show: A bus trip to remember!

On a chilly November morning laden with bags and lots of snacks. True to the collective anticipation of the group in the build-up to the trip, Julie relished the opportunity of turning up early to the rendezvous and true to her words she turned up first and cheerily! Emma rocked up almost dancing in excitement, …

Exploring the use of a model of ‘Technology Enriched Stroke Rehab’

To start with… a little bit about me. I am an occupational therapy advanced practitioner in NHS Lanarkshire with around 18 years of experience in acute and community stroke services. I became interested in the role of technology in stroke rehabilitation when looking at ways to modernise services, and had been along to visit the …

I is for Identity…..

Professional identity development in occupational therapy What is professional identity? When we say professional identity, it is more than just your job title or the credentials that follow your name. Professional identity is “a constellation of attributes, beliefs, values, motives, and experiences through which people define themselves in a professional role” (Fitzgerald, 2020). As an …

Launch of a state-of-the-art stroke rehabilitation hub in NHS Lanarkshire

Current state of play Recently published Stroke rehabilitation guidelines recommend delivery of three hours of rehabilitation per day to optimise motor recovery post stroke1. However, the amount of stroke rehabilitation currently delivered is well below this recommended amount2.  Addressing this rehabilitation shortfall is critical to ensure stroke survivors are supported to reach their optimum levels …

H is for Home

Meaning of home in occupational therapy When occupational therapists ask clients about their home, we are often focused on practical aspects such as the layout, furniture, adaptations or social support within their home. Whilst we know that someone’s home is more than just the physical space that surrounds them, how often do we stop to …

What it’s like to study Occupational Therapy at GCU in 2024!

Glasgow Caledonian University occupational therapy department has recently celebrated 60 years of occuaptional therapy education. As part of this celebration, our students from the occupational therapy society have been reflecting on their experience as current occuaptional therapy students at GCU. From our short time here at GCU as occupational therapy students, the profession has grown …

G is for Gardening as a meaningful occupation

Did you know that Glasgow, translated from its Gaelic name, literally means ‘Dear Green Space’? It has the most accessible green space of all Scottish cities (Glasgow City Council, 2019). With that in mind, this blog focuses on gardening as a meaningful occupation and therapeutic activity and encourages you to consider how you might incorporate …

Face of Professionalism

Professionalism can be thought of as conforming to the standards of a particular profession and is illustrated though the behaviours demonstrated by a professional (Deluliis, 2017).  A level 1 module about developing professional skills and behaviours within the BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy programme at Glasgow Caledonian University has a strong focus on professionalism. This is …