Using iPods® and iPads® in Teaching Programs for Individuals With Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review
Research in Developmental Disabilities
Kagohara, D. M., van der Meer, L., et al. (2013).
Research in Developmental Disabilities, 34(1), 147-156.
This systematic review investigates the effects of iPod®/iPad®-based teaching programs on academic, social, communication, or other adaptive behaviors in individuals with developmental disabilities (e.g., autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy).
Marsden Fund Council (New Zealand); Victoria University of Wellington (New Zealand); University of Canterbury (New Zealand); New Zealand Institute of Language, Brain & Behaviour
Through June 2012
Peer-reviewed, empirical studies
15
For individuals with developmental disabilities, 15 studies investigated the use of iPod Touch® or iPad® as an instruction tool. Eight out of the 15 included studies investigated the use of iPod Touch® or iPad® as speech-generating devices to facilitate basic communication skills such as naming and requesting in nonverbal individuals. "Overall, the studies included in this review provide evidence that iPods®, the iPod Touch®, iPhones®, and iPads® can be successfully utilized within educational programs targeting academic, communication, employment, and leisure skills for individuals with developmental disabilities" (p. 155). The effects on other communication skills (e.g., greeting, conversation) and social validity were not reported.
