Transcript presentation

Autism & Technology:
How Can Technology Support
the Communication Skills of a
Student with Autism?
What is Autism?
Autism is a complex developmental
disability that affects an individual in the
areas of social interaction and
communication. Autism is a spectrum
disorder that affects each individual
differently and to varying degrees of
severity (Autism Society of America).
Statistics
According to the Center for Disease
Control and Prevention (2003), autism
is the most common of the Pervasive
Developmental Disorders, affecting an
estimated 1 in 250 births. Based on
statistics from the U.S. Department of
Education and other governmental
agencies, autism is growing at a rate of
10-17 percent per year.
Background
 Practicum
Experience
 Elementary School in Alachua County
 Partnership
 Lower Elementary Grade
My Wondering…

That evening, I went home and began to think
about Drew. I began to wonder if there was
some way in which technology could help him
in the classroom.
 I noticed that Drew really seemed to “come
alive” on the computer and this fascinated
me. Still, I did not know a lot about Drew and
how technology could help him.

Drew, I found out, has a desire to
communicate and tries to share his ideas
during morning meeting but often fails to send
a clear message. Drew often lets out a
mumble and says short phrases.

This is when I realized I wanted to help Drew
and learn about ways in which technology
can help him communicate his ideas,
thoughts, and feelings.
My Final Wondering
How can technology enhance the
academic and social communication
skills of a student with autism?
Data Collection
 Audio
Tape Reflections
 Informal Interviews
 Formal Interview
 Outside Research
 Work Samples
Data Analysis
Findings
1. Computers Increase
Independence and Engagement
Findings
2. Repetition and Modeling Is Key to
the Growth of Social Skills
Findings
3. Computers Enhance Talking and
Overall Quality of Verbalization
(Socially and Academically)
I have a cat.
I bought him at the animal store.
I got a dog and a bunny too.
I like to play with them.
They are nice.
Findings
4. Computers Provide Motivation
Findings
5. Computers Aid in a Predictable
Environment
Findings
6. Typing Encourages Communication;
Handwriting May Inhibit It
Findings
 Motivating,
Engaging,
 Improved his Social Skills (Video)
 Enthusiastic
 Improved Speech & Story Telling Skills
 Increased independence
 All findings support each other
Conclusions

The ability to customize computer-based
instruction for a particular student, to
reinforce certain behaviors, or to provide
controlled practice on a skill is limited only the
educator’s imaginations (Higgins, 1996).
 When creating activities that involve
technology, it is extremely important for them
to be based on individual needs of student.
Conclusions Continued.
 Supplement
instruction, don’t replace it.
 1/3 of children with autism will learn to
be independent (Interview Notes, April
3, 2005).
 Technology is a medium for students
with autism that allows them to express
themselves
Future Wonderings

When is taking a child with autism to a
computer not as effective as working one-onone with a teacher?

How can I encourage aides and teachers
(who may have little background in
computers) to experiment with and develop
simple, yet effective computer-related
activities for students with autism?
Contact Me!
Meghan Gallagher
[email protected]