Time Orientation Training in AAL

Abstract

A time display and time training device has been developed in collaboration between University and Special Education Schools, with which an empirical intervention is to begin shortly. Former trials in children provided evidences of time managing improvement, reduction of stress in changes of activity and usefulness in managing behavior contention. This communication describes current version of the prototype which has been adapted to the experimental setup to be started this year which integrates feedback obtained in previous trials, in accordance with previewed experimental intervention. Time passing is represented by turning off sequentially and gradually a row of luminous elements initially on, which provides for association with time perception. Besides luminous elements, tasks display provides for association of agenda-information. Tasks management support and anticipation to changes is supported by setting different colors to the luminous elements and by providing luminous or sound messages. Disruptive behavior control training is also supported by added flexibility in configuring different times and feedbacks. Training tools are integrated in an AAL platform that includes home control and AAL specialized interface, keeping in mind its potential application to other cognitive impairments as Alzheimer disease.

Integración de tecnologías de apoyo para educación especial

“…Se realizó una adaptación del software de interfaz de usuario a su uso mediante paneles similares a TICO, según el criterio de los profesores. Se virtualizó el dispositivo físico de OT, para disponer de él mediante navegador web para alumnos que pudieran tratar con ese nivel de abstracción [3,4]. El estudio de casos mostró mejora en algunos ítems de la Clasificación internacional del funcionamiento, de la discapacidad y de la salud: CIF [5] de la OMS relacionados con la actividad y con la autonomía personal del alumno.…”

Cognitive Accessibility and Support in Special Education

“…Its implementation in more than ten classrooms for several months has given measured improvements in autonomy related functions [ 7 , 8 ]. Advances from former prototypes have included direct integration with the educational service platform and TICO-like interfaces, wider configuration options, direct import of programmed agendas from TICO panels, multiuser dynamics, cognitive access, and social interaction features.…”

“…Its aim was to train in time management at different levels. It was published as an independent service in a congress [ 7 ] and as a paper in [ 8 ]. Its goals were increasing temporal awareness, the ability to address changes minimizing associated stress (especially in autism), and agenda management for the most advanced pupils in the “transition to daily life” educational program.…”

Time Orientation Technologies in Special Education

“…The joint use of the foregoing caused the perception of time to show a substantial improvement. Further technological functions the prototype has achieved are reported in [36,37]. Next section summarizes the key technological aspects of the time orientation device validated in this work.…”