Assistive Technology Programming for a Young Child With Profound Disabilities: A Single-Subject Study
By Shull, Jennifer; Deitz, Jean; Billingsley, Felix; Wendel, Sue; Kartin, Deborah; Physical and Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics, Vol. 24, No. 4, pp. 47-62Publication Date: 2004
Study conducted to evaluate the effects of adapted switch-operated devices on the behaviors of a six-year-old child with profound multiple disabilities. The participant was evaluated in a pre-school classroom setting while using the Big Red Switch from Ablenet, Incorporated. The switch was modified so that it could be activated by less than three ounces of pressure, and was covered with moleskin to make it more comfortable for the child to touch. The device was mounted on the participant’s wheelchair using a Universal Switch Mounting System. Stimuli produced by switch activation included warm air from a blow dryer and music from a commercial cassette. The researchers’ main evaluative measure was the number of successful switch activations per session. Once the child began accessing the switches, she was able to independently engage in sensory experiences. The authors believe that this and similar activities are important in that they facilitate the beginnings of communication via switch interface.
Assistive Products Discussed: BIG RED SWITCH
Published by: Haworth Press (Website:http://www.haworthpressinc.com)
This publication is included in the library of the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), accession number J48351
