An access technology delivery protocol for children with severe and multiple disabilities: A case demonstration

Abstract

Objective: This study applied response efficiency theory to create the Access Technology Delivery Protocol (ATDP), a child and family-centred collaborative approach to the implementation of access technologies.

Methods: We conducted a descriptive, mixed methods case study to demonstrate the ATDP method with a 12-year-old boy with no reliable means of access to an external device. Evaluations of response efficiency, satisfaction, goal attainment, technology use and participation were made after 8 and 16 weeks of training with a custom smile-based access technology.

Results: At the 16 week mark, the new access technology offered better response quality; teacher satisfaction was high; average technology usage was 3--4 times per week for up to 1 h each time; switch sensitivity and specificity reached 78% and 64%, respectively, and participation scores increased by 38%.

Conclusion: This case supports further development and testing of the ATDP with additional children with multiple or severe disabilities.

• Access technology
• communication
• provision
• service delivery
• assessment
• assistive technology

Acknowledgements

We would like to gratefully acknowledge Adam, his family, his teacher and his OT for their participation, dedication and hard work.