Community-based public transportation training with the integration of assistive technology: A pilot program for young adults with intellectual disability

Article type: Research Article

Authors: McDonnell, Alora^a | Benham, Sara^{b; *} | Fleming, Catherine^c | Raphael, Amy^c

Affiliations: [a] Independent Contractor, West Chester, PA, USA | [b] Moravian College, Bethlehem, PA, USA | [c] Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Sara Benham, Moravian College, 1441 Schoenersville Road, SMRC 264, Bethlehem, PA 18018, USA. Tel.: +1 610 625 7207; Fax: +1 610 625 7201; E-mail: benhams@moravian.edu.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Young adults with an intellectual disability require transportation to participate in work and leisure, however reports on specific public transportation training programs, use of assistive technology supports, and outcomes are limited. OBJECTIVE: This pilot study was designed to explore if a transportation training program which utilized technology aids decreased the amount travel assistance required. A secondary objective was to observe and describe the specific assistive technology utilized while traveling within the community. METHODS: Eight individualized training sessions were administered within the community with the integration of technology aids and travel skill training through a facilitated learning model. The Pre & Post Travel Training Test was administered pre-test and post-test. RESULTS: The paired t test (n= 10) revealed a significant increase in scores upon post-test (p= 0.00011), indicating a decrease in assistance required for travel. The most preferred technology aid was individualized, printed Google Maps directions (60%) followed by smartphone Apps (40%) and visual social stories (40%). CONCLUSIONS: All participants increased independence in public transportation travel skills. Ample opportunity to trial low to high technology aids should be considered. Through this initial pilot, possible greater availability of access to work and community opportunities may result after community-based transportation training.

Keywords: Travel instruction, community mobility, intellectual disability, public transportation, assistive technology

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-200306

Journal: Technology and Disability, vol. 33, no. 2, pp. 109-121, 2021