Enhancing independent transition skills through use of a self -directed visual and auditory prompting system and palmtop compute

This study examined the properties of the use of computer technology to increase independence for students with intellectual disabilities in vocational and independent living tasks. The purpose of this research was to test the hypotheses that a palmtop computer utilizing a Windows CE platform with touch screen capabilities and programmed with the Visual Assistant program from AbleLink Technologies would: (a) decrease the need for adult prompts, (b) increase the number of tasks completed without prompts, and (c) increase the production rate on vocational tasks for students with intellectual disabilities. Four students from a large suburban school district who were receiving special education services under the category of intellectual disabilities were recruited for this research.;Research was conducted using a multiple-baseline-across participants design. Baseline, intervention, and follow-up data were collected on vocationally-oriented or life skill tasks in the student's existing educational program. Upon completion of baseline data collection, the students were taught to use the palmtop with the Visual Assistant program (Visual Assistant System). The Visual Assistant System was used for intervention and follow-up.;The major findings of this study were: (1) The total number of instructor prompts did decrease between baseline data and follow-up data. The ranges of means for total prompt data of the four students were: (a) 304 to 40.5, (b) 15.7 to .66, (c) 34 to 18.3, and (d) 16 to zero. (2) Steps completed without prompts did increase from baseline data to follow-up data. At the final follow-up visit, students B and D were completing their tasks without any adult assistance at all. (3) Duration of task showed a decrease of minutes for one of the students. Student A's performance mean ranged from 51 minutes to 33 minutes.;The use of the Visual Assistant System might be viewed as a future consideration for students with intellectual disabilities to successfully perform vocational and life skills tasks.