Affiliations: School of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Akron, Akron, OH, USA
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Roberta DePompei, Ph.D, School of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Polsky 188K, University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325-3001, USA. Tel.: +1 330 972 6114; Fax: +1 330 972 7884; E-mail: rdepom1@uakron.edu
Abstract: It is often recommended that individuals with memory and organizational problems after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) use some type of memory device such as a paper calendar. Recently the use of electronic devices has been suggested. This article outlines data obtained from in vivo trials using personal data assistants (PDAs) and follow up in depth studies with PDAs and smartphones. These trials were conduced with individuals who had memory and organizational problems as a result of cognitive disorders of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or intellectual disability (ID) Results indicate that the use of electronic devices can enhance independent behavior. Factors influencing success include: student motivation, audible beep of the device; support for programming and troubleshooting, alterations of functions; and selection of features to motivate. Based on the result of the studies, an intervention plan for use of PDAs was developed for use by clinicians.
Keywords: Pediatric traumatic brain injury, PDAs, smartphones, memory and organizational, intervention plan
