The analysis of the trend of educational system in orthotics and prosthetics in Iran and the world: A step toward the foresight.

BACKGROUND

Along with the growth of science and technology, the orthotics and prosthetics (O and P) have been changing since the past as a dynamic profession and the role of a specialist in O and has also undergone a change due to needs of society and the growth of technologies. To illustrate the future direction of an educational system, it is necessary to have a trend analysis of what weaknesses and strengths have existed in the past and the present.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this analysis, two methods of scoping review and interview were conducted. For the purpose of scoping review, database searches of PubMed, ERIC, SID, and Web of Science in combination with a search on websites of key organizations, including universities, World Health Organization, and International Society of O and P were conducted.

RESULTS

Various trends have been formed from different aspects in the health education system due to multifaceted nature of the O and P. The areas include health and education services, technology, curriculum, educational programs, and accreditation.

CONCLUSION

The debate on monitoring and evaluation of O and P educational systems has been also developed along with the progress made in the training of O and P. The training of individuals by setting minimum standards leads to a professional competency in line and is considered as other issues arisen in the field of education; however, in recent years, improvements in this field have not been significant.