The effectiveness of a computer‐based safety programme for children with severe learning difficulties

Abstract

AbstractThis study reports the findings of a research study into the development of a safety programme for those with severe and complex learning difficulties. A full description of the study was reported in Lee et al. (1998). The aims of the study were twofold. The research was intended to fill the prevailing gap in appropriate prevention materials designed for those with severe learning difficulties. Attention was paid to the medium through which such concepts were taught and it was proposed that multimedia technology might circumvent the problems encountered when introducing personal safety to this group. The second aim was to extend knowledge of developmental concepts towards a practical and applied programme to teach safety skills. As this research involved the design and implementation of a personal safety programme for those with severe learning difficulties, the general hypothesis was that after completion of the programme, the experimental group would be significantly more able to respond to the interview vignettes. An examination of the participants' level of authority reasoning related to their performance on the safety interview was also undertaken. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.