ERIC Number: EJ875799
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007
Pages: 19
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1040-0435
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Available Date: N/A
Use of a Team-Based Approach to Assistive Technology Assessment and Planning for Children with Multiple Disabilities: A Pilot Study
Copley, Jodie; Ziviani, Jenny
Assistive Technology, v19 n3 p109-127 Fall 2007
This pilot study trialed a team-based assistive technology assessment and planning process for children with multiple disabilities and their educational teams, in order to inform a wider study using explanatory case study methodology. Fourteen students and their educational teams participated in the process, which incorporated use of the Lifespace Access Profile and Lifespace Access Profile (Upper Extension), together with a video procedure developed to determine size and number of assistive technology targets that students could use. Data generated included pre- and postpilot questionnaires completed by team members, pre- and postpilot technology goals developed by each team, and field notes. Thematic analysis of the data indicated that the team-based process had a number of benefits for teams, including development of more specific and achievable technology goals; increased knowledge, skills, and confidence of team members; more effective teamwork to assist decision-making; and better coordination of technology use between home and school. Further research is required to objectively measure direct student outcomes and to determine the impact of team dynamics.
Descriptors: Multiple Disabilities, Program Effectiveness, Assistive Technology, Teamwork, Case Studies, Pilot Projects, Evaluation Methods, Video Technology, Questionnaires, Special Education, Educational Technology
RESNA: Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. 1700 North Moore Street Suite 1540, Arlington, VA 22209-1903. Tel: 703-524-6686; Fax: 703-524-6630; e-mail: publications@resna.org; Web site: http://www.resna.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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Authoring Institution: N/A
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