The Challenges of Implementing a Curriculum with Occupation as the Central Organizing Framework

Abstract

Education is a central force in shaping professional identity, autonomy and power. This was recognized by Icelanders who established their first and only occupational therapy education program at the University of Akureyri in 1997. The program is occupation-based and the educational process is guided by occupational therapy philosophy and values. From the beginning the program has been facing a number of contextual challenges. An emphasis is placed upon building potential resources, especially those related to the occupational therapy community. Preliminary results from student surveys point to that the program is reaching its goals of graduating self-reliant entry-level occupational therapists with a strong professional identity. Furthermore, the education seems to be meeting students' expectations and needs, constituting a meaningful occupation. However, further development and adaptation of the program will be carried out.