Training Needs of Pediatric Occupational Therapists in Assistive Technology

TLDR

Training of providers working with children who need assistive technology devices or services has not kept pace with the explosion of new, more sophisticated assistive technology devices now available. The authors conducted a national survey of 272 pediatric occupational therapists to assess their training needs in assistive technology and service delivery. The survey revealed that many therapists lack adequate training in assistive technology policies and service system organization, and they seek affordable, accessible training on funding, collaboration, and vendor access, highlighting a need for comprehensive pre‑service and in‑service training.

Abstract

Abstract The training of providers working with children who need assistive technology devices or services has not kept pace with the explosion of new, more sophisticated assistive technology devices now available. This article reports on a national survey of 272 pediatric occupational therapists, who responded to questions about their training needs in the area of assistive technology and delivering assistive technology services. A sizable percentage of these therapists reported less-than-adequate training in policies governing assistive technology services and the organization and function of the service system. The therapists would like training that is accessible and affordable in the areas of funding of technology and services; collaborating with families and other service providers; and accessing reliable, knowledgeable vendors. These findings underscore the need to develop pre-service and in-service training in assistive technology for providers who work with children who have disabilities.