Is social networking/websites bringing occupational therapists together?

Social networking covers the types of websites that allow collaborative content production by a number of authors. Blogs are probably the most commonly known and used of these resources. A recent online search revealed approximately 34 blogs maintained by therapists or students predominantly from the UK, USA and Aotearoa/New Zealand. These blogs vary in content but share a common purpose of reflecting on occupational therapy practice. It has been suggested that blogging may contribute to the personal and professional development of the users (Martin, 2007), and for these presenters a key value has been the opportunity to engage in debate with our colleagues from around the globe. Whilst there is no empirical evidence to support this view, anecdotal evidence such as the experiences of the authors would suggest that there may be merit in using blogs to facilitate international comparisons of practice. This work is based on early international collaborations between the UK, NZ and USA and presents blogging experiences in relation to globalisation of occupational therapy. Preliminary evidence suggests that blogging facilitates communication as well as a depth of learning as the individual has the opportunity reflect on issues raised by others from different cultural perspectives. Blogging however is not without challenges. These can be summarised as frustrations with time delays, misinterpretation and occasional feelings of isolation. This session offers the opportunity for participants to evaluate the potential use of blogs as personal and professional learning tools. Martin, M. (2007) Personal learning experiments as professional development. Retrieved 26 September, 2007 from http://michelemartin.typepad.com/thebambooprojectblog/professional_development/index.html accessed 26.9.0