Critical factors involved in end-users education in relation to Assistive Technology

The term "critical factors" refers to aspects that deserve careful consideration when approaching the transfer of knowledge to end-users so as to achieve empowerment or prepare the ground for it. This report identifies, describes and analyses such critical factors, and gives rise to a conceptual framework for the development of educational initiatives. The main concern of this study is the process that leads from expression of the need to the choice of Assistive Technology (AT). Chapter 1 introduces the philosophy of the EUSTAT project , clarifies some basic concepts and describes the contents and methodology adopted. Chapter Two deals with the relationship between AT and end-users, and describes knowledge transfer as a key factor for bridging the gap. In Chapter Three, a systematic classification of critical factors is given. This is based on a model of the educational process that embraces the sequence of logical steps through which a body of knowledge takes shape in the mind of someone organising an educational initiative, is delivered to end-users, and gradually brings about their empowerment. Chapter Four lists supporting literature, and also includes a comprehensive review of selected handbooks on AT deemed useful for end-user education.