Date of Award

5-2016

Document Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (Research)

Department

Business & Social Studies

First Advisor

Dr Tom Farrelly

Second Advisor

Mr Peter Given

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological disorder which impacts on people in three primary areas: communication skills, social skills and behaviour skills. The diagnosis of ASD continues to rise with an estimated 1 in 100 receiving diagnoses of ASD in Ireland. There are many interventions promoted on a regular basis that claim positive effects on the basis of empirical research. However, the claims made by such studies are sometimes a little at odds with the level of methodological rigour and/or sample size employed. The research available is based on small scale international studies (America, Canada and Australia); however, they have evidenced the potential benefits being received by participants as a result of utilising this intervention. There are a plethora of Apps available within the ASD sector and particularly within the area of communication.

This research set out to investigate the effectiveness of a communications App based on the Picture Exchange Communication System (P.E.C.S.). While P.E.C.S. was developed for preschool children with ASD, its applicability is not exclusive to this group. Technology is a rapidly growing area and it was inevitable that mobile devices would become part of present and future ASD interventions.

The use of communication Apps and mobile devices with children with ASD is a relatively new and limited area, particularly in Ireland; however, the potential benefits being evidenced highlight its potential for implementation. The development route of the App was of primary concern for the researcher; thus, a multi-disciplinary approach was applied. The methodology adapted to this research was Action Research and User-Centred Design while utilising a mixed-method approach.

The evidence from the research strongly suggests the benefits received by participants as a result of utilising a communication App and mobile device, focuses on five key areas: communication, social inclusion, independence, attention span and behaviours that challenge. This research also highlighted the importance of stakeholder involvement and the requirement for a holistic approach to the intervention to ensure success for participants.

Access Level

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Coverage

July 2024

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