Building model trains and planes : an autoethnographic investigation of a human occupation.

POLLARD, Nicholas and CARVER, Neil (2016). Building model trains and planes : an autoethnographic investigation of a human occupation. Journal of Occupational Science, 23 (2), 168-180.

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Abstract

This research paper utilises an autoethnographic method, termed collective autobiography, to explore the nature and meaning of the amateur hobby of building models from childhood to adulthood. Hobbies and leisure activities are areas of human occupation of increasing interest to a variety of disciplines e.g. healthcare. Although model making may concern the miniature representation of any subject, this paper focuses on the construction of model aircraft kits, trains and their layouts. As a complex specific human occupation modelling is revealed as significant to personal wellbeing, and while the activity may start in childhood its associated motivations and required skills develop over a life time. The findings reveal aspects of the nature of the relationship between the modeller, the process of modelling and the final product. In addition they also reveal some elements of the gendered nature of modelling, its role within father-son relationships, and the accommodation of modelling activities within shared domestic spaces. The specific modelling activities described are recognised as having their origins within the culture of post-war baby boomer Britain, and the socioeconomic and technological environment of that period. This recognition necessitates discussion of the modeller as a skilled consumer as well as a creative individual.

Item Type:	Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018:	Centre for Health and Social Care Research
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1080/14427591.2016.1153509
Page Range:	168-180
Depositing User:	Nicholas Pollard
Date Deposited:	23 Feb 2016 16:05
Last Modified:	18 Mar 2021 00:25
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/11584

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