Improving learning abilities using interactive Assistive Technology: A survey based study for Down Syndrome Students

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Volume 2 Issue 1 2021

Author(s):

Muhammad Irfan Leghari
Sindh Madressatul Islam University
mirfanleghari@gmail.com

Syed Asif Ali

asifkhi@hotmail.com

Abstract Assistive Technology supports disabilities in education to increase learning ratio. Students with Intellectual disabilities have the equal rights to study in general learning environments with normal peers. Down syndrome is a genetic cause and sub-category of intellectual disability. Students with Down Syndrome delay in cognitive ability due to delay reaction by their brain. Such habits cause delay in fulfilling task than their normal classmates. Research aim is to bring Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) strategy to bridge the reading-writing issues faced by Down Syndrome Students (DSS) with Assistive Technology (AT) support. We have used mixed methodology, wherein an online survey is processed across the Pakistan to evaluate type of computing technology used by DSS and to identify the problems faced by DSS in reading-writing process. A practical approach carried out to identify usability pattern with desktop, portable devices and smart phones. A proposed Interactive Learning Model (ILM) addresses the issue and suggest the assistive technology solutions and services to provide way to use gadgets and solve learning problems. The results show that the students with Down Syndrome face problems in reading, writing and solving exercises. Interactive technology scrutinizes questionnaires and provide smart solutions in classroom to address the reading and writing using assistive technology based reading and writing and touch-to-speak technology to develop language skills and expressing their thoughts, communication control and decrease frustration. Tough-type-read-spell oriented custom software to improve reading and spelling skills and to provide paperless advantage.
Keywords Down Syndrome Students (DSS), Assistive Technology (AT), Interactive Learning Model (ILM), Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
Year 2021
Volume 2
Issue 1
Type Research paper, manuscript, article
Recognized by Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, HEC
Category Y
Journal Name ILMA Journal of Technology & Software Management
Publisher Name ILMA University
Jel Classification --
DOI -
ISSN no (E, Electronic) 2709-2240
ISSN no (P, Print)
Country Pakistan
City Karachi
Institution Type University
Journal Type Open Access
Manuscript Processing Blind Peer Reviewed
Format PDF
Paper Link https://ijtsm.ilmauniversity.edu.pk/arc/Vol2/pdf/1.pdf
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