Journal of Human Growth and Development
ISSN 0104-1282 ISSN 2175-3598
PELOSI, Miryam Bonadiu NUNES, Leila Regina d'Oliveira de Paula. In service training for health professionals in assistive technology: the occupational therapists' role. Rev. bras. crescimento desenvolv. hum. []. 2009, 19, 3, pp.435-444. ISSN 0104-1282.
the purposes of this study were to plan, implement and evaluate the effects of a training course in Assistive Technology devised to health professionals. Twenty eight occupational therapists and nine speech pathologists were the recipients of the course offered in an action research model. In the study, conducted in the city of Rio de Janeiro, an active lecture model was employed, through the use of questionnaires, videos, simulated activities and group dynamics concerning the use of Assistive Technology resources. The results showed that this delivery model, in spite of taking into account the recipients´ needs and interests, was not sufficient to change the professionals' actions in their work field. Data pointed out both the need of continuity of the formation process and the relevance of interaction with more experienced peers in order to change the recipients´ attitudes towards the use of Assistive Technology as a work tool.
: occupational therapy; assistive technology; continuous education.