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Fortune database entry no.
65
Book:
Magazin:
Project Description:
Internet Resource:
Area(s) of Application:
Social and Vocational Integration, Product Development, Market
Analysis
Relevant Player(s):
Research Institute, University, User Organization, Manufacturer,
Enduser, Other
Thematic Issue(s):
Training / Methods, Methods / Strategies
Methods/Strategies:
*Only General Information*
Example of user training in the context of assistive technology
and technology assessment
Abstract:
Vlicht, the Flemish Information and Communication Centre for
Handicap and Technology was founded in November 1989 to improve
the quality and distribution of information on technical devices
to help people with special needs. Vlicht is a non profit organisation
sponsored by the Flemish Foundation for Social Integration of
Persons with a Handicap.
The main tasks of Vlicht are expressed in the words "information"
and "communication". Vlicht collects information on
technical aids for people with special needs and distributes
this information to social workers, therapists and the disabled
themselves. This is accomplished in many different ways, including
the provision and maintenance of a computer database on assistive
devices, the publication of a newsletter, an advice line for
people who are disabled or who are concerned with their care,
and the organisation of workshops, seminars and educational
courses in the field of assistive technology.
All units of vlicht are closely related to a research laboratory
of a Flemish university. The "Speech" unit is in Gent,
the "Hearing" unit in Antwerp and the units "Infovisie",
"Motor" and "Central information service"
are in Leuven. The relationship between Vlicht and the universities
provides a solid base for the work of the different units.
Vlicht is also carrying out comparison tests of products for
handicapped people. The products that are tested are chosen
on the basis of current real issues. The tests are performed
by technical engineers, mostly involving visually handicapped
people. User participants are selected through personal contacts.
Sometimes users are trained before the product is tested. Depending
on the type of products, training is limited to a short introduction
on the working of the product or a real training in using the
product if necessary.
Name of Institution
Vlicht v.z.w.
FTB-Homepage.
If you have got any questions, please feel free to write an email to:
webmaster@ftb-volmarstein.de
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