What children on the autism spectrum have to ‘say’ about using high-tech voice output communication aids (VOCAs) in an educational setting

CHECKLEY, Rebecca, HODGE, Nick, CHANTLER, Susan, REIDY, Lisa and HOLMES, Katie (2010). What children on the autism spectrum have to ‘say’ about using high-tech voice output communication aids (VOCAs) in an educational setting. Journal of Assistive Technologies, 4 (1), 25-37.

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Abstract

This paper focuses on accessing the experiences of three boys who are on the autism spectrum to identify what using a voice output communication aid (VOCA), within a classroom setting, means to them. The methods used to identify the boys' perspectives are described and evaluated. Establishing these through direct methods of engagement proved problematic but working with parents and school staff as ‘expert guides’ provided a rich insight into what using a VOCA appeared to mean to the boys. The findings suggest that using a computer-based VOCA can be viewed by children with autism as a pleasurable and motivating activity. This technology also seems to offer the potential for a much broader developmental impact for these children than that currently recognised within the research literature.

Item Type:	Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018:	Psychology Research Group Sheffield Institute of Education
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.5042/jat.2010.0042
Page Range:	25-37
Depositing User:	Lorna Greaves
Date Deposited:	24 Sep 2012 11:13
Last Modified:	18 Mar 2021 04:40
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/6097

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