Revolutionizing Disability Education in Croatia: Equipping Schools with Assistive Technology

Croatian Educational Institutions Enhanced with Assistive Technology to Improve Children’s Lives

In a remarkable initiative, 34 educational institutions across 22 cities in Croatia have been equipped with assistive technology, including hardware and software aids for children with developmental disabilities. This cutting-edge technology includes computers, mobile phones, electronic devices, and non-technological solutions aimed at improving functional abilities and enhancing the quality of life of these children.

The implementation of the project was led by CARNET and showcased at a final conference held on April 24. The Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation of the University of Zagreb (ERF), the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science of the University of Zagreb (FER), and the City Reykjavik were project partners in this groundbreaking initiative.

Training sessions were provided to directors and employees of educational institutions to efficiently use the new equipment in working with children with developmental disabilities. A total of 5,686 pieces of assistive technology equipment were delivered to the institutions, benefiting over 1750 students. Multiple workshops, webinars, and an e-course were organized for more than 1450 participants to enhance their skills.

ERF and FER established a new Laboratory for Assistive Technology (AT Lab) and a Catalog of assistive equipment purchased as part of the project. The City of Reykjavik organized trainings and shared examples of good practices for Croatian directors and employees of educational institutions, introducing them to institutional frameworks and support systems for children with developmental disabilities.

The ATTEND project was co-financed from the European Economic Area Financial Mechanism and the remaining part from the state budget. The aim was to improve the education and support of children with developmental disabilities through the use of assistive technology, benefiting thousands of students across Croatia.

Overall, this innovative project has greatly enhanced the capabilities