Presenting an analytic framework facilitating a situationally oriented analysis of the use of digital technology for engagement in occupation

Background: Digital technology is closely intertwined with and influences people’s everyday lives. Within occupational science and occupational therapy, research is therefore warranted into situationally oriented analysis of the use of digital technology for engagement in occupation. Objective: To contribute with an analytic framework facilitating a situationally oriented analysis of the use of digital technology for engagement in occupation. Material and methods: An operationalisation of Dewey’s theory of transaction and inquiry in conjunction with an occupational science approach served as the analytical framework for exploring how underprivileged adults use digital technology for engaging in health-related occupation. Findings: The analytical framework proved useful for a situationally oriented analysis of digital technology use for engagement in occupation: by fostering identification and registration of digital technology artefacts used for engagement in occupation, by making transparent the complexity that the situation creates for the participant, by identifying problems with and needs for inquiries in relation to engagement in occupation and, finally, by facilitating a situation-oriented analytical language. Conclusion: The analytical framework presented is useful for conducting a situationally oriented analysis of digital technology use for engagement in occupation. Future research and validation of the analytical framework are needed.