Effectiveness of iPad apps on visual-motor skills among children with special needs between 4y0m–7y11m

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to assess the effectiveness of interventions using iPad applications compared to traditional occupational therapy on visual-motor integration (VMI) in school-aged children with poor VMI skills.

Methods: Twenty children aged 4y0m to 7y11m with poor VMI skills were randomly assigned to the experimental group (interventions using iPad apps targeting VMI skills) or control group (traditional occupational therapy intervention sessions targeting VMI skills). The intervention phase consisted of two 40-min sessions per week, over a period of 10 weeks. Participants were required to attend a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 12 sessions. The subjects were tested using the Beery-VMI and the visual-motor subscale of the M-FUN, at baseline and follow-up.

Results: Results from a 2-way mixed design ANOVA yielded significant results for the main effect of time for the M-FUN total raw score, as well as in the subscales Amazing Mazes, Hidden Forks, Go Fishing and VM Behavior. However, gains did not differ between intervention types over time. No significant results were found for the Beery-VMI.

Conclusions: This study supports the need for further research into the use of iPads for the development of VMI skills in the pediatric population.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• This is the first study to look at the use of iPads with school-aged children with poor visual-motor skills.

• There is limited literature related to the use of iPads in pediatric occupational therapy, while they are increasingly being used in practice.

• When compared to the traditional occupational therapy interventions, participants in the iPad intervention appeared to be more interested, engaged and motivated to participate in the therapy sessions.

• Using iPad apps as an adjunct to therapy in intervention could be effective in improving VMI skills over time.

Keywords:

• iPad
• occupational therapy
• pediatrics
• technology
• visual-motor
• visual-motor integration

Acknowledgements

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the participants and their families who took part in the study, as well as the MAB-Mackay Rehabilitation Center for the provision of space, equipment as well as staff support. We would also like to thank the ApiO team for the the information session on iPad use as well as the following companies for providing iPad apps at no cost; BinaryLabs, FizzBrain, TropiSounds Corporation, zeec GmbH, Essare LLC, Artgig Apps, Alexandre Minard^® AR entertainment, MyFirstApp Ltd, Grasshopper Apps, KlickTock Pty Lte, Moopf, BidBox, and Sanoma Media Netherlands B.V.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.