An Exploration of the Effectiveness of the use of communication Apps through mobile devices on children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Background: The use of communication Apps is a new area of research, particularly in Ireland; however, the available literature indicates that these Apps have a holistic effect on a child’s life. The child derives benefits... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
The use of communication Apps is a new area of research, particularly in Ireland; however, the available literature indicates that these Apps have a holistic effect on a child’s life. The child derives benefits in area’s of: communication, independence, social inclusion, attention span and behaviours that challenge. The researcher, who is a Social Care Professional, is developing a communication App for children with ASD while utilising the Picture Exchange Communication System (P.E.C.S.).
Aims and Objectives:
• To identify the current use of P.E.C.S. among children with ASD and how the limitations can be addressed through using an App.
• As a result of the desk and usability study along with data received from staff and parents, design and implement a Communication App.
• Conduct a field usability analysis: conduct Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist’s (ATEC) with the participants to ascertain the effects that the App has on their communication, social interaction and behaviour.
Method:
When designing for people with ASD it is essential to obtain information from this population in order to design with them as opposed to for them. Therefore, this study adopts an action research user-centered (UCD) approach, working in partnership with 10 children with ASD, their parents, teachers and Speech and Language Therapists. The App is being developed using the iterative process of UCD with each version of the prototype being informed by usability testing. The principal research methods are: structured observations; interviews and focus groups. Ethical approval has been granted by the college’s research ethics committee.
Findings:
Initial findings are encouraging regarding the possible benefits of using a communication App. User requirements to date focus on addressing issues with regards to (1) Sensory processing, (2) Motor skills and (3) the requisite App features that encompass the strongest elements of P.E.C.S.
Conclusions and implications:
At this early stage study conclusions cannot be drawn. However, in addition to the development of the App, by drawing on the researcher’s social care background combined with coding skills, one important outcome of the study will be the development of frameworks for developing Assistive Technology and AAC with children with ASD.