Autism and tablet computers in Turkey: Teaching picture sequencing skills via a web-based iPad application

Abstract

We conducted the first study on Turkish children with autism and tablet computers, with a web-based iPad application designed especially for them. We performed a pilot study on three Turkish boys of different ages with autism to observe their reactions to the tablet application and its effectiveness in teaching the sequencing skill, which is part of their educational curriculum. Our application had a testing session with no prompts or rewards and a teaching session with prompts, rewards, and demonstration of correct responses. First, our participants played the testing session to determine their baseline sequencing abilities. Next, they played the teaching session. Finally, they played the testing session again to see if they were now able to sequence the cards on their own. Through this application, the 11-year-old boy’s sequencing skills improved without external help, via only the prompts and reinforcements of the iPad application. The application was not enough to teach sequencing to the 4-year-old, who required external help, and it was too simple for the 15-year-old, who did not use any prompts and quickly became bored. Based on our findings, we discuss how to improve similar sequencing applications and offer suggestions for designing iPad applications for individuals with autism.