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Description
The aim of the project is to develop and test an effective model for training dog assisted therapy and education teams based on theoretical scientific foundations, practical training and learning skills as well as internships in educational institutions. Thanks to the comprehensive approach after the training, the human-dog team will be fully prepared to conduct educational and therapeutic interventions independently. The practical part in the case of dog assisted therapy/education is extremely important, because managing a group of clients / clients in class and, at the same time managing the dog''s work, requires not only knowledge, but also practical skills acquired during internships. SZL has a database of employers (schools, kindergartens, clinics and care facilities) seeking therapy/educational human-dog teams. The instructors working at SZL are prepared to be a tutor in such a facilities and to introduce beginners to professional work step by step.
Summary of project results
The project was an initiative focused on developing the competencies of 10 Polish and 10 Norwegian dog therapy educators. In view of the growing popularity of dog therapy, increasing the qualifications of therapists was crucial for effective therapy.
The key activities of the project were two experience exchange camps, one in Poland and one in Norway. These face-to-face meetings allowed participants to learn about innovative techniques and working methods. A concluding seminar in Poland and an informative seminar in Norway allowed for reflection on the results of the project, exchange of experiences and planning of further activities. The final conference in Poland provided a platform to present the results of the project to a wider audience.
The project has produced a number of important results. The most important of these was a definite increase in the competence of the participants in the field of dog therapy in the context of inclusive education. Therapists gained not only new knowledge, but also practical skills that they can now use in their daily work. Norwegian participants also had the opportunity to learn about the Polish approach to doga therapy, which enriched their understanding of the field.
In addition, the project has helped to increase public awareness of AAI (Animal-Assisted Interventions) and dogotherapy in Poland and Norway. Thanks to extensive information and promotional activities, knowledge of the subject has reached a wider range of people, which in turn has contributed to the development and acceptance of these therapy methods.
Summary of bilateral results
Cooperation with NCoFA has influenced the high quality of project implementation and strengthened the relationship between the Polish and Norwegian institutions. It allowed combining competencies, experiences and diverse perspectives, which significantly influenced the development of Polish dog therapy and increased the quality of education in this field. The jointly developed methods and working tools made it possible to more effectively solve the challenges of inclusive education and animal-assisted therapy.Important results were the improvement of knowledge and understanding of the issue of dogotherapy and the exchange of best practices between partners. The cooperation has led to broader outcomes, such as developing international contacts, strengthening partnerships, reducing educational disparities and promoting sustainability in education. Cooperation with a Norwegian institution was extremely important, as it allowed access to specialized knowledge and experience in the field of dogo therapy, which is still relatively less developed in Poland.As part of the cooperation, project participants had the opportunity to learn about the culture, values and educational system of Norway, which increased their openness to diversity and ability to adapt to new solutions.We definitely plan to continue bilateral cooperation with NCoFA, as we are satisfied with the results of the cooperation so far, and we see a lot of opportunities for development both within the framework of dog therapy and other areas of education. In the future, we would like to implement joint projects that will allow further exchange of experience, knowledge and strengthen relations between our institutions and countries, which will improve the quality of life of people who benefit from dogotherapy services.