Understanding the Research
The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a set of mobile applications designed to improve socio-adaptive behaviors and socio-cognitive functioning in children with ASD. These applications, collectively named "School+," include both assistive and cognitive rehabilitation tools. The research involved a 3-month intervention in mainstream schools and at home, with 50 participants, including children with ASD and intellectual disabilities.Key Findings
The study revealed several significant outcomes:- Children with ASD who used the tablet apps showed marked improvement in socio-adaptive behaviors, such as social skills, school skills, and leisure activities.
- These children also demonstrated enhanced socio-cognitive functioning, including better emotion recognition and visual attention.
- The assistive apps helped children navigate classroom routines and verbal communication, promoting greater autonomy and reducing disruptive behaviors.
Practical Implementation
For practitioners looking to integrate these findings into their practice, here are some actionable steps:- Adopt Tablet-Based Tools: Utilize tablet apps designed for cognitive and behavioral interventions. These tools can be customized to meet individual needs, making them versatile for various classroom settings.
- Collaborate with Stakeholders: Engage with teachers, parents, and therapists to create a cohesive support system. Regular communication ensures that the child's progress is monitored and adjustments are made as needed.
- Focus on Training: Provide training for educators and support staff on how to effectively use these apps. Familiarity with the tools will enhance their implementation and maximize benefits for the students.
- Monitor and Adjust: Keep track of the child's usage and progress with the apps. Use this data to make informed decisions about continuing or modifying the intervention.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study offers promising results, it is essential to continue exploring and validating these findings. Practitioners are encouraged to:- Participate in Research: Get involved in ongoing studies or initiate new research projects to further understand the impact of mobile technology on children with ASD.
- Share Insights: Contribute to professional forums, conferences, and publications to disseminate knowledge and best practices.
- Advocate for Funding: Support initiatives that seek funding for research and development of assistive technologies for children with ASD.
By leveraging the power of tablet apps, educators and therapists can significantly enhance the inclusion and participation of children with ASD in mainstream classrooms. This approach not only benefits the children but also fosters a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Tablet Apps to Support First School Inclusion of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in Mainstream Classrooms: A Pilot Study.
