As part of the FFG-funded project “GreenTouch – XR in occupational therapy for the ecological handprint”, IMC Krems is working with renowned partner institutions to develop innovative solutions to more firmly anchor the link between climate protection and health in occupational therapy. The aim of the project is to enable occupational therapists to support their clients in sustainable action through the use of extended reality (XR).
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XR technology for climate-friendly occupational therapy
The project, which started in September, is supported by an interdisciplinary consortium that includes, in addition to IMC Krems, the Institute for Advanced Studies (Institut für Höhere Studien - IHS) (project lead), the Austrian Institute of Technology, the University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten (FH St. Pölten), in scope and Future Minds.
Innovative learning spaces through extended reality (XR)
According to the World Health Organization, the climate crisis poses the greatest threat to global health. This is where the FFG project GreenTouch steps in, offering innovative solutions for occupational therapy: therapists shall develop the necessary climate skills using extended reality (XR), which they can then pass on to their clients using XR technology.
In close collaboration with experts, practitioners and clients, an XR research prototype will be developed that enables occupational therapists to integrate new, climate-friendly options for action into their work. This prototype is designed to facilitate learning and understanding of complex content through visual, acoustic and haptic elements, thus promoting a sustainable change in behaviour.
“My enthusiasm for this research project is based on two aspects,” explains Christine Spevak-Grossi. “On the one hand, it contributes to the ecological handprint, which counteracts climate change. On the other hand, it supports occupational therapists and especially their clients in their self-efficacy, which is of great importance for their health.”
Practical solutions for the health care industry
The GreenTouch project aims to develop practical solutions for the health care sector. Through the use of XR technologies, occupational therapists acquire specific climate skills and pass them on to their clients to strengthen their resilience in dealing with environmental changes. The project results should help to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the fields of health, education and climate protection. Practical solutions will be developed and summarised in a didactic concept and a concluding policy brief.
The project will not only have a direct influence on the training of occupational therapists at IMC Krems but will also help to raise awareness of sustainability in the healthcare sector as a whole.
“Knowledge transfer through climate protection measures combined with the innovative use of XR technology make it possible to actively involve clients who are limited in their participation in climate protection and thus promote their health and social participation. The project makes it easier for occupational therapists, teachers and students to address and implement the topic of sustainability in their daily practice,” says Christine Spevak-Grossi.