Using the Ipad to Promote Communication

I just finished reading a post on Spotlight on Digital Media and Learning addressing the use of ipads with autistic children.  The post shares the 60 minutes story completed by Lesley Stahl on the use of the ipad to improve communication for students with autism.  Rhonda McEwen, an assistant professor of information at the University of Toronto is leading a study at Toronto’s Beverly School.  Her insight is also included in a 60 minutes interview.  She points out that they will not have any hard data to support the use of ipads promoting communication for several years.  The ipad is being used with kindergarten students in this school, and they will track their progress for the next several years to see if it makes a significant impact.

I have witnessed first-hand children in preschool who enter the preschool setting with limited vocabulary and a diagnosis of autism.  We have used vocabulary building activities on the computer to build vocabulary with these students, and have had success in that venture.  Our concerns were raised around the way the computer draws them in inclusively, so that they do not want to engage with other students or other activities.  Children with autism sometimes have difficulty engaging with their peers, so if we can find a technology like the ipad that helps them communicate, and engage with their peers at the same time, I think we really have something. 

I am also fascinated by the ongoing study at the University of Pittsburgh by Dr. Walter Schneider .  I am anxious to follow this study to see what insights in brain research are gained, and the implications for our understanding of helping children with autism communicate.