ABSTRACT

Purpose : This study aims to examine what subjects of focus are necessary for assistive technology (AT) practitioners, both in general practice and for those working with the aged, thereby identifying the expert qualifications of occupational therapists. This study also aims to come up with the subjects required for advanced courses for AT practitioners. Methods : This study was conducted a total of three times on a group of nine AT practitioners using the Delphi method. A final questionnaire was prepared based on the following: (1) expert opinions collected through the first round of a questionnaire, and (2) educational courses opened in the domestic departments of occupational therapy and rehabilitation technology. The period of study was from August 17th to December 18th, 2009, and the rate of replies from the participants was 100% in all three rounds of the questionnaire survey. Results : Among the available subjects of focus in occupational therapy departments, fourteen, including assistive technology, functional anatomy, activities of daily living, and splint, were in the first quartile as those that provide occupational therapists with AT practitioner qualifications. For such subjects for AT service practitioners working with the aged, seven, including geriatric occupational therapy, musculoskeletal occupational therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation, were in the first quartile. The most essential subject of advanced courses for AT practitioners in both general practice (88.9%) and for those working with the aged (77.8%) turned out to be house and work place remodeling. Conclusion : This study ascertained that occupational therapists are obtaining the necessary subjects as AT practitioners in their school courses. Given the evidence above, an effort to embody the roles of occupational therapists in a variety of AT services, including payment for assistive devices, is required. In addition, more advanced courses that enhance the capabilities of occupational therapists as AT practitioners need to be established. The results of this study are expected to be utilized as the basic data for future AT practitioner courses.