In an ideal world, I might be able to function as a guide to a group of ten or so patients for a pilot study to demonstrate the effectiveness of this method of using computer mediated communications to enhance the perceived well being of the patients. I wouldn't think that there should be problems, but some may happen. I would think that for several of the pilot patients, the opportunity to communicate with others not focusing on the physical disabilities should be highly enjoyable. If the program were to be successful, expanding the use of computer mediated communication to other groups would be very beneficial.
Getting people to make use of computer mediated communications requires a certain comfort level with using the computer, and the information on the internet. To my mind, as a librarian, it's a no-brainer, but I am sure that there are those who do not feel comfortable. So, some structured time of internet exploration would probably be beneficial. I do not see this being needed for very long, but who knows what would really be required?
As I understand things, having the iPad commercially available at a reasonable price point should make this project even more able to move forward without a lot of fuss. Not that this project has been particularly limited to any particular hardware configuration. When I started looking at the available literature for evidence of computers being used with rehabilitation, there was an article out of a North Carolina summer camp study on how the use of computers helped engage some of the disabled youths. My initial hardware solution was the typical PC, Monitor, keyboard, mouse, modem, phone line. Technology has certainly advanced well.
Article comments
1 - Ian Jolley
Interesting. I think your focus on the ipad, or any other tablet for that matter should be focussed upon. Its a simple form factor that can be easily manipulated and repositioned for comfort. I would imagine that when it is used in relation to mental impairment it would depend on the patient. My autistic son can find his way around a computer and is not "frightened" of technology and for some autistic children the fact that they can find relevant information without the need for, what can be, daunting human interaction is certainly a step forward. What can be key, and sometimes difficult, is to remove the autistic child from the parent while being taught. It can't always be done, I know, but I truly believe that the parent can sometimes stun the learning process because of their caution and need to protect their child. I am very interested to hear and learn more....