OCCU 6023

This course will critically examine the colonial underpinnings of occupational therapy, encouraging learners to explore and appreciate multiple perspectives on knowing and doing. Starting from historical and contemporary colonial practices in Canada and Mi’kma’ki, and impacts on health, well-being and occupation, it will explore the colonial biases built into the foundations of the profession (theories, models, practices). Building on local and global anti-colonial approaches to occupational therapy, it will specifically attend to Indigenous epistemologies and the need to take responsibility for transforming practice processes. Students will be introduced to approaches to challenge colonialism within themselves and the profession.