Using population-level time use datasets to advance knowledge of human activity, participation and health

Time use is of enduring interest to occupational therapists and occupational scientists. However, occupational researchers have yet to exploit fully the potential of large population-level time use datasets. A brief overview of the historical development and current activities within time use research internationally is presented. Whilst acknowledging the challenging nature of this type of research, the authors explore some of the opportunities offered by the secondary analysis of large time use datasets for occupational therapy and occupational science researchers who seek to advance knowledge of human activity, participation and health.