Reflections on Methods for applying Activity Theory to CSCW research and practice – The AODM Approach

CSCW research and practice incorporates the design and analysis of computer-basedtools as resources for supporting work-based activities. Within this remit, the design and analysis of these tools need to address mediational aspects of these resources in relation to the context of operation and motives of those engaged in work activity. In this regard, several researchers and practitioners have highlighted the suitability of activity theory in conceptualising the dynamics of tool and user interactions in context (Nardi, 1996; Kuutti, 1996; Bodker, 1991). However, variations in methodological perspectives on putting activity theory ideas into practice continue to trigger interesting debate regarding the feasibility of applying activity theory to the design and analysis of computer systems and tools for supporting work activities (Mwanza, 2001a, 2001b and 2001c). Towards this end, various methodological propositions have been put forward (Mwanza, 2002; Korpela et al., 2000; Kaptelinin et al., 1999)

Identifying and applying psychological theory to setting and achieving rehabilitation goals: development of a practice framework

Goal setting is considered to be a fundamental part of rehabilitation; however, theories of behaviour change relevant to goal-setting practice have not been comprehensively reviewed. To identify and discuss specific theories of behaviour change relevant to goal-setting practice in the rehabilitation setting. (ii) To identify 'candidate' theories that that offer most potential to inform clinical practice. The rehabilitation and self-management literature was systematically searched to identify review papers or empirical studies that proposed a specific theory of behaviour change relevant to setting and/or achieving goals in a clinical context. Data from included papers were extracted under the headings of: key constructs, clinical application and empirical support. Twenty-four papers were included in the review which proposed a total of five theories: (i) social cognitive theory, (ii) goal setting theory, (iii) health action process approach, (iv) proactive coping theory, and (v) the self-regulatory model of illness behaviour. The first three of these theories demonstrated most potential to inform clinical practice, on the basis of their capacity to inform interventions that resulted in improved patient outcomes. Social cognitive theory, goal setting theory and the health action process approach are theories of behaviour change that can inform clinicians in the process of setting and achieving goals in the rehabilitation setting. Overlapping constructs within these theories have been identified, and can be applied in clinical practice through the development and evaluation of a goal-setting practice framework

Social Work Theory and Application to Practice: The Students' Perspectives

We believe the success of applying theory in practice is largely contingent on how students define social work theory, identify the role of theory in practice, and categorize benefits and challenges in applying theory to practice. It is on this premise that this article is presented. Two datasets were used to form the students' perspectives. The first dataset is a seven year compilation of 109 undergraduate student theory papers and the second is a pre-test/post-test online survey of graduate students in an advanced social work theory course. The work offers a context for educators in teaching and helping students to apply theory in their own practices