Measuring the outcomes of word cueing technology.
BACKGROUND
Measurement of assistive technology outcomes is complex because many factors (e.g., environment and model of service delivery) influence the successful use of the technology.


OBJECTIVE
Using the example of measuring the outcomes of word cueing technology, this paper presents an approach for measuring assistive technology outcomes.


METHODS
The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) was administered to 29 children with physical and learning disabilities, between the ages of 3.9 and 19 years. Participants were provided with WordQ, a software program designed to assist the development of writing skills. Follow-up data were collected through telephone interviews.


RESULTS
The COPM findings supported the effectiveness of WordQ Version 1 to enhance written productivity, with a mean performance change score of 3.5 (SD = 1.5). The COPM was an effective tool for measuring clients' perceived outcome of word cueing technology. Telephone interview was considered a successful method for collecting outcome data.


CONCLUSIONS
A mix of tools and methodologies should be used to gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of assistive technology.
Tam
Cynthia
C
University of Toronto, Bloorview MacMillan Children's Center, Toronto, ON. c.tam@bloorviewmacmillan.on.ca
Archer
Janice
J
Mays
Jennifer
J
Skidmore
Gretchen
G
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003463:Cues; D019988:Children with Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D012984:Software; D014956:Writing