Assistive Technology or AT is basically a learning strategy that makes use of any device, equipment, or system to help those people with thinking and learning differences. This method is developed to support individuals with various types of disabilities, from cognitive issues to physical impairment. And it is also beneficial to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by expanding communication capabilities, promoting independence, and increasing their interaction with other people.
While most kids are now technologically inclined, the teaching methods for autistic kids must also evolve so they’ll be comfortable with the use of mobile tablets and devices in their hands.
And to know more about this topic, we invite you to continue reading as we will discuss how assistive technology for autism helps students with ASD to communicate effectively in today’s entry.
3 Ways Assistive Technology For Autism Promote Confidence And Better Communication During Social Interactions
For kids with ASD, an integral part of their schooling is learning to navigate through social situations. And thankfully, technology has made it possible to allow them to interact and communicate effectively with others.
From mobile apps to interactive robots, here are the 3 ways assistive technology can help autistic kids become confident learners:
1. Enhancing Verbal Skills Through The Use Of Mobile And Digital Apps
Research suggests that 25% of children with ASD don’t communicate verbally, while others are considered as low-functioning communicators.
Fortunately, there are mobile apps developed for kids with this kind of communication challenge called “special ed tech”. These apps are designed to assist children with ASD who are struggling with their verbal skills. And teachers will find it comfortable using these apps since they’ll be able to customize their method of teaching and integrate the use of mobile devices to their curriculum.
Aside from that, teachers can also implement the use of technologies called “Speech-Generating Devices” which is a portable device that has 1 or more switches or panels that can be activated when pressed and produce a synthesized speech output or a pre-recorded message.
2. Digital Tools To Help Gain Confidence
Confidence and enhanced social skills go hand-in-hand. And one way of promoting confidence to kinds with ASD is by introducing them to digital tools like Sphero. In essence, this type of AI assistive technology encourages autistic children to explore further their comfort zones and try new things so they can also learn new things. In a way, this digital tool encourages them to be brave so they can overcome their anxieties as they slowly interact with the outside world beyond their school classroom.
3. Using STEM-Based Abilities To Improve Social Skills
A research in 2012 showed that 34% of autistic students choose STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) as their major course in college. And this mode of teaching uses a “flipped classroom” model so that students will be able to work collaboratively on various projects using robotics, 3D printers, computer-aided design, etc. during class time.
By helping the children with ASD hone their natural abilities through assisted technology for autism, they are also interacting with other students, which also improves their social engagement with their parents and other people.