Speech Therapy students from ESS/IPS conduct a biographical interview with a user of the Day Centre
On 4 December, third-year students on the Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Therapy from the School of Health – Polytechnic University of Setúbal (ESS/IPS), as part of the Psychology and Development II module, welcomed Ms Deolinda, a service user at the Day Centre of the Social Solidarity Association of the Parish of Gâmbia–Pontes–Alto da Guerra. The visit was also attended by social worker Fernando Brito.
The session formed part of the Biographical Interview methodology, an educational tool that enables students to analyse an elderly person’s life journey, challenges and personal resources. The activity contributed to the development of a case study and to the development of skills essential for future professional practice in Speech Therapy, such as active listening, empathy, effective communication and the planning of health promotion initiatives. By bringing the academic experience closer to the reality experienced by people, the link between theory and practice that characterises training in this field is reinforced.
ESS/IPS would like to express its gratitude to D. Deolinda, social worker Fernando Brito, the Day Centre and the Social Solidarity Association of the Parish of Gâmbia–Pontes–Alto da Guerra, as well as to the Chair of the Sado Parish Council, Dr Marlene Caetano, for their support and cooperation, which made this initiative possible.
