TOBY play-pad application to teach children with ASD - A pilot trial
Dennis W Moore1, Svetha Venkatesh, Angelika Anderson
1Krongold Centre, Faculty of Education, Monash University , Melbourne , Australia .
Developmental Neurorehabilitation
|July 23, 2013
Summary
The Therapy Outcomes By You (TOBY) iPad app shows promise for early intervention in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Many families engaged well, suggesting TOBY can provide valuable learning opportunities for children with ASD.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Educational Technology
Background:
- Early intervention is critical for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Digital applications offer novel avenues for delivering therapeutic interventions.
- The TOBY Playpad is an iPad application designed for early intervention in ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the usage patterns of the TOBY Playpad application.
- To assess the learning outcomes associated with TOBY Playpad use in children with ASD.
- To evaluate TOBY Playpad as a tool for early intervention in ASD.
Main Methods:
- 33 families with children diagnosed with ASD (age ≤16) participated.
- Families used the TOBY Playpad for 4-6 weeks without additional coaching.
- Data collected on family engagement and child progress indicators.
Main Results:
- 23 families demonstrated extensive engagement with TOBY.
- Participants were exposed to over 100 learning units.
- Completion rates of the TOBY curriculum ranged from 17% to 100%.
Conclusions:
- TOBY Playpad shows potential as a valuable tool in early intervention for ASD.
- The application facilitates high rates of learning opportunities for children with ASD.
- Further research is needed to validate TOBY's efficacy using independent measures of functioning.
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01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
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01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
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