Effectiveness of information technology methods used for rehabilitating children with autism spectrum disorder in Palestine as perceived by their therapists; mixed methods رسالة ماجستير

Abstract

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a neurodevelopment disorder that is characterized by difficulties with social communication and social interaction and restricted and repetitive patterns in behaviors, interests, and activities. By definition, the symptoms are present early on in development and affect daily functioning. The term ‘spectrum’ is used because of the heterogeneity in the presentation and severity of ASD symptoms, as well as in the skills and level of functioning of individuals who have ASD (American Psychological Association [APA], 2016). Objective: The main objective of this study is to examine the effectiveness of using some information technologies in rehabilitation of children with autism spectrum disorder who have learning and communication difficulties as perceived by their therapists, in selected centers in Palestine. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study. The sample is composed of 79 therapists who work at rehabilitation centers for children with ASD who complain of communication and learning difficulties in Palestine. Results: Study revealed that 81% of Therapists positively think that using IT systems in ASD children rehabilitation increases the effectiveness of the therapy, another finding is that 80% Therapists positively believe that using an IT system in ASD children rehabilitation does have a number of clear benefits that can’t be achieved otherwise. Lastly, 88%of Therapists positively have the shared opinion that using IT systems in ASD rehabilitation VI in a wrong or untrained way can have dangers, pitfalls or negative effects that should be considered and avoided. Conclusion: The study confirmed that most of the participants agree toward the effectiveness of using IT systems in rehabilitation of ASD children and the great benefits of its impact. Therapists viewed the IT methods a new and unique way to get the attention of the child, they break the usual routine therefore is very attractive. Also help the child to focus on the task required during sessions. Although the study acknowledged the negatives in terms of the costs and dangers if used with no professional supervision, the therapists agreed that benefits outweigh the cost of using them.