Affiliations: [a] Rehabilitation Centre, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland | [b] Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Helsinki, Finland | [c] Tampere University of Applied Sciences, Tampere, Finland
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Pekka Paalasmaa, Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Vanha viertotie 23, PO Box 4031, FI-00079 Metropolia, Finland. Tel.: +358 40 641 8836; E-mail:pekka.paalasmaa@metropolia.fi
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Personnel of Finnish Assistive Technology (AT) centers noticed
in their discussions a lack of specific education for those working AT
services. They nominated a group which included representatives of
universities, AT centers and national authorities. The group did background
questionnaires about intended education, its content and length. Three
universities started educational programme on Assistive Technology aiming to
introduce new methods to develop user-centered work in the organization's
services and learning by doing at work with their superiors. This
educational programme was 30 ECTS and lasted 10 months. RESULTS: Based on surveys and discussions the educational programme for AT
personnel was planned and it was funded by Ministry of Education and
Culture. Additionally, based on the feedback and experience of the completed
education it is suggested to develop a joint European education with
national elements in it.
