Computers are useful for those with autism; they facilitate communication and aid in learning. In recent months, there has been some buzz in education and autism communities about the Apple iPad.
The iPad, like other computers, is an effective tool for many on the autism spectrum. Its flexibility and portability offer some additional advantages, though, over laptops or PCs. The touch screen and layout make the iPad more accessible for children with coordination or learning difficulties; these children may find sliding and tapping easier than either typing or writing. Moreover, the iPad can be easily carried, and thus is helpful for calming and focusing children who are on the go.
The iPad can also be used as a communication board or augmentative communication device. Because of the customization options and because the iPad is a ‘cool tech device’ that doesn’t immediately mark a child as different, many see it as a more attractive option than the more traditional devices. Some children have been captivated indeed by the iPad, finding the motivation to master quite a few new skills in a short span of time.
I definitely would stop short of using the phrase I saw in ‘the weekly’ this morning: The iPad isn’t a cure for autism — I’m not sure ‘cure’ is even an appropriate term for a complex learning difference — and there are autistic individuals whose abilities simply won’t allow them to use an iPad or any other computer. Still it looks like Apple may have done something they didn’t necessarily set out to do, which is provide one of the better adaptive learning technologies on the market.
On this page, I will share some research and resources that you may find useful if you are considering which communication and teaching tools to use with people on the autism spectrum.
Computers as Autism Teaching Tools
What’s the buzz about computers and autism? It’s a matter of brain wiring.
A person with typical neural wiring activates different brain systems when viewing a face than they do when viewing, say, a shrub. They notice subtle differences in facial features and expressions, even if they think those shrubs on the way to the bus stop all look the same. This is not necessarily the case for people on the autism spectrum; they may activate the same visual systems for faces as for inanimate objects. A person with autism may struggle to differentiate facial expressions — or even the faces themselves. Many people with autism feel more comfortable interacting with nonhumans — even cartoon characters. They are often drawn to activity that is self-directed and predictable.
People diagnosed with autism have a range strengths and weaknesses as well as intelligence levels. Some communicate very well in writing even if their speaking skills are quite low. Many are visual thinkers and have strong technological and/or artistic skills. When engaged in a task, a person with autism may display a level of absorption and concentration that is lacking in the general population. And when he is strongly motivated, he may achieve far more than the expected.
Enter the computer. For many on the autism spectrum, computers have been a game changer, capitalizing on strengths and compensating for weaknesses.
Cost: A Surprising Advantage for the iPad?
The iPad isn’t cheap — with models ranging from about $500 to $800 dollars — and yet is a good deal cheaper than many augmentative communication devices. For some people with communication difficulties, assisted communication devices still loom out of reach; thus the iPad’s relative affordability is a draw. In Autism and Apple, a parent writes of how the school district provided his nonverbal son with a $3000 ChatPC device… but not forever. When the young man reaches the age where the public schools will no longer be responsible for his needs, he will have to return it. Even with the additional cost of special needs apps to help the young man speak, the iPad still cost the family less than half as much. They have tried it, and consider it an effective communication tool.
On the subject of cost: Who should pay for augmentative communication devices? Some people are interested in donating iPads. Some believe insurance companies should foot the bill — something they have been reluctant to do. Part of the reasoning is that are some people who would try to game the system. People aren’t apt to fake the need for a wheelchair. An iPad, on the other hand, they might. But how do we put iPads in the hands of those who need the technology to live more normal live?
iPad Donations for Kids with Autism: Danny’s Wish
Danny’s Wish has a campaign underway to put iPads in the hands of children with autism. You can donate an ipad at their site.
And if you don’t have — or can’t afford to purchase an iPad? There are multiple other ways to help out, through the Danny’s Wish site, as well as through their fan page on Facebook.
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