Abstract:

The concept of Snoezelen is a therapeutic, supportive, or recreational method, the essence of which lies in the use of a structured multisensory environment as a means of sensory stimulation, development of perception and active learning, calming and relaxation, and the development of socialization and communication in children and adults with disabilities, seniors, and other marginalized groups. Snoezelen is always related to a stimulating multi-sensory environment. Its aim is to harmonise the personality of individuals and offer varied stimuli and experiences. The added value of this method is the possibility of working individually and specifically with each person, adapting to their needs and finding their unique path. Thanks to its flexibility and functionality, the Snoezelen concept is very often used in 24-hour care and in health, rehabilitation, and educational institutions. Its concept offers a controlled number of sensory stimuli and works on the basis of a positive empathic relationship between its participants. Snoezelen work, which is based on the acquisition of many sensory experiences, is a deeply enriching process, especially for those individuals who are limited in their acquisition of information, e.g., due to their disability or age. Snoezelen-Multisensory Environment (MSE) is considered an innovative, supportive and therapeutic concept with many different and interesting aspects, of which we would like to highlight in particular the social aspect and the human aspect.

Despite Snoezelen-Multisensory Environment (MSE) use continuing to increase worldwide there is a serious lack of formal staff preparation. This is due to the absence of a uniform theoretical understanding of the method and insufficient rigorous research. To help counter these concerns Czech, Polish and Spanish academics have established a project to support Snoezelen concept development within the three countries and promote its uniform integration into university education across the helping professions. (Support of the Snoezelen concept and its integration into university education 2020-1-CZ01-KA203-078267).

The participants in the research were Czech (CZE), Polish (POL) and Spanish (SPA) students and graduates formally educated in the theory of the Snoezelen - MSE. The Czech research group consisted of a total of 145 respondents. In order to carry out qualitative and quantitative research, five research hypotheses were formulated. These hypotheses were then verified using statistical methods (chi-squared test of independence and selected nonparametric tests - specifically Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Kruskal-Wallis test). The results of our research show differences between respondents/students in three different countries as we mentioned above – the Czech Republic, Poland and Spain.

This paper reports on an initial survey questionnaire designed to investigate and compare the current level of student knowledge in this area across the three countries. Special issues which are solved in this article concern: type of Snoezelen experience, rating of possible personal approach within the Snoezelen, using Snoezelen in certain way and involving pedagogues or therapists and practising of Snoezelen in certain age of caregivers.

Keywords:

Snoezelen-Multisensory Environment (MSE), Snoezelen functions and strengths, Relaxation, Activation, Individual Personal Approach, Helping Professions.