Mainstream but specialized: Mobile technology for cognitive support in education

Mamoru Iwabuchi*, Maiko Takahashi, Kenryu Nakamura, E. A. Draffan

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In this study, two software development projects were introduced to support timekeeping and reading for students with cognitive disabilities using mainstream mobile technology. In the first project, two versions of a countdown timer were developed that showed the remaining time graphically, by the area size. A unique feature was added to the developed prototypes, preventing the user from unintentionally interrupting the running of the timer. The ebook reader developed in the second project offered students the chance to point to a phrase and have it read aloud with a highlight box around the characters. It was important for the students to have a digital replica of the printed textbook being used at the same time by others in the class. The study highlighted a key consideration for assistive technology development for those with cognitive disabilities: that of the essential balance between technical features and human skills, such as the system's ease of use, look and feel as well as cognitive adaptation, whilst applying mainstream technology to the provision of specialized support. The study also showed that solutions to time and reading difficulties should be considered in relation to available technology and the surroundings of the users.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings 2012 17th IEEE International Conference on Wireless, Mobile and Ubiquitous Technology in Education, WMUTE 2012
Pages117-121
Number of pages5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event2012 17th IEEE International Conference on Wireless, Mobile and Ubiquitous Technology in Education, WMUTE 2012 - Takamatsu, Kagawa, Japan
Duration: 2012 Mar 272012 Mar 30

Publication series

NameProceedings 2012 17th IEEE International Conference on Wireless, Mobile and Ubiquitous Technology in Education, WMUTE 2012

Conference

Conference2012 17th IEEE International Conference on Wireless, Mobile and Ubiquitous Technology in Education, WMUTE 2012
Country/TerritoryJapan
CityTakamatsu, Kagawa
Period12/3/2712/3/30

Keywords

  • Cognitive disability
  • Dyslexia
  • Education
  • Mobile phone
  • Tablet PC
  • Time aid

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Computer Networks and Communications
  • Education

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Mainstream but specialized: Mobile technology for cognitive support in education'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this