Improvisation as an adaptive strategy for occupational therapy practice

Area of Science:

• Health Care Education
• Occupational Therapy
• Adaptive Skills Training

Background:

• Modern healthcare settings demand advanced adaptive skills from practitioners.
• The integration of theatrical improvisation (improv) into healthcare is an emerging concept.
• Occupational therapy practice requires blending scientific knowledge with practical adaptability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose improvisational techniques as a key adaptive skill for occupational therapy.
• To enhance practitioners' ability to navigate complex and unpredictable healthcare environments.
• To facilitate the integration of artistic and scientific approaches in occupational therapy.

Main Methods:

• Occupational therapy students participated in an academic seminar module.
• The module focused on teaching improvisational techniques and rules.
• Students practiced applying improv to solve common professional challenges.

Main Results:

• Improvisational techniques were explored as a method for skill development.
• The study highlights the potential of improv for enhancing adaptability.
• Enacting solutions to professional challenges using improv was practiced.

Conclusions:

• Improvisational techniques can be effectively recommended as an adaptive skill.
• Improv aids in blending the art and science crucial for occupational therapy.
• This approach supports practitioners in fast-paced, unpredictable healthcare settings.