A Palmtop Computer-Based Intelligent Aid for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities to Increase Independent Decision Making

Abstract

This study reports the evaluation of a software prompting system operating on a Pocket PC model palmtop computer designed to facilitate decision making for individuals with intellectual disabilities. It was hypothesized that such a system would provide measurable improvement in the ability of individuals with intellectual disabilities to navigate more independently decision points in a task. The results provide evidence demonstrating the utility of Pocket Compass, a portable software system that utilizes intelligent audio and visual cues to help individuals with intellectual disabilities navigate through the cognitive process of making appropriate decisions when completing a vocational task. A total of 40 adults with intellectual disabilities participated in a beta test designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the prototype software system. The results demonstrated that the Pocket Compass approach can successfully be used by individuals with intellectual disabilities in a self-directed manner to increase independence and accuracy on vocational tasks.