Occupational Science

In order to follow a student-centred pedagogical model aimed at the development of professional skills in the field of occupational therapy, the following teaching methods are proposed
Theoretical classes: demonstrative, interrogative (e.g. brainstorming) and provision of theoretical support resources on a web learning platform with resources in different formats and with scientific articles on the content;
Theoretical-practical classes: active learning methods, learning by doing, following a design thinking methodology (focused on problem solving), in order to create and elaborate in groups a concept map on a topic related to occupational science chosen by the students, as well as to analyse scientific articles on the subject, applying scientific analysis methods.

Students who obtain a minimum grade of 10 (ten), rounded up, will be considered to have passed this course unit.
Continuous assessment
1 Test – Written exam (35%); Group work with oral presentation (25%); report on a scientific article related to the course content (20%);
reflection report on learning (20%).
Final assessment
Normal/Resit/ Special period exam: Written exam (100%)
In accordance with the Academic Regulations for the 1st Cycle of Studies of the School of Health Technology of the Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, available for consultation at https://www. estesc.ipc.pt/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Regulamento-Academico-1o-Ciclo_ESTeSC_-Homologado_signed_20230720.pdf

Understand and apply knowledge of occupational science, the diverse nature of work in relation to health, well-being, participation, occupational and social justice in complex contexts. Analyse and evaluate environmental factors and their influence on participation, occupational and social justice. Ensure respect for diversity in contexts, recognising its holistic influence on participation and occupational justice. Demonstrate and apply critical knowledge of intersectionality, processes of social inclusion and exclusion, policies and systems, taking into account relevant approaches, methods and techniques in this area of knowledge. Critically reflect on practice and complex knowledge, make informed judgements and contribute to societal challenges. Demonstrate knowledge and critical  wareness and know how to responsibly use advocacy approaches to promote occupational justice and occupational rights for individuals, groups, populations and communities

Definition of Occupational Science
History and origins of occupational science
Perspectives on health, well-being and occupation. How does occupation influence health, well-being and occupation?
Occupational science perspective on occupation, adaptation and participation
Occupation as an agent of population health
Lifestyles and occupational roles throughout the life cycle and their influence on health and well-being.
Being, belonging and becoming through doing
Concept and principles of occupational and social justice: equity in access to occupations, diversity and participation.
Occupational justice, public policies, inclusion and occupational rights advocacy
Types of occupational injustices: occupational deprivation, occupational alienation, occupational marginalisation, occupational imbalance.
Vulnerable groups and contexts of occupational exclusion.
Occupation, environment and community development
Theory of intersectionality
Topics in occupational science

NAO