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Microswitch clusters to enhance adaptive responses and head control: a programme extension for three children with
G E Lancioni1, M F O'Reilly, N N Singh
1Department of Psychology, University of Bari, Italy. g.lancioni@psico.uniba.it
Disability and Rehabilitation
|July 16, 2005
Summary
Microswitch clusters effectively extended adaptive responding and head control in children with multiple disabilities. This technology enhanced new motor skills and maintained previous responses, offering practical benefits for educational programs.
Area of Science:
- Assistive Technology
- Developmental Disabilities
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Children with multiple disabilities often face challenges in developing adaptive responses and motor control.
- Previous research established the use of microswitches for adaptive responding and head control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of microswitch clusters in extending adaptive responding and head control in children with multiple disabilities.
- To assess the ability of children to learn new adaptive responses and integrate them with head position control.
Main Methods:
- Three children with multiple disabilities were trained on new adaptive responses (foot lifting, leg touching, vocalization) and head position control.
- Microswitch clusters provided positive stimulation contingent upon correct adaptive responses paired with appropriate head position.
Main Results:
- Children successfully learned and maintained new adaptive responses combined with appropriate head position over two to three months.
- The intervention also reinforced the use of previously learned adaptive hand responses with correct head positioning.
Conclusions:
- Microswitch clusters proved effective in enhancing adaptive responding and head control in children with multiple disabilities.
- This study represents a successful replication and extension of previous work, with significant implications for educational and occupational therapy programs.