(1115) THE TABLET IN THE EDUCATION OF PUPILS WITH SEVERE DISABILITIES AND MULTIPLE HANDICAPS

摘要

This paper presents a part of research implemented in one of the Czech centres specialised in services for pupils with severe disabilities and multiple handicaps. The iPad tablet was repeatedly used in the education of these pupils in 2016. The pupils regularly practised some selected activities with iPads during individual education with their teachers, while we were simultaneously recording pupils’ reactions. Each lesson was recorded on digital video, and then analysed by the teacher, teacher’s assistant, special pedagogue, and edTech specialist. The reactions of pupils was also evaluated in the context of recorded interactions before and after the lessons, including information about the previous night and morning, obtained from each pupil’s parents. In the contribution, a case study will be introduced which shows the research results on one observed pupil in detail. Her diagnosis includes Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI), Hypoplasia disci, Astigmatism, severe psychomotor retardation, secondary epilepsy, a congenital defect of CNS, and also visual and neurological diseases. During the activities with an iPad, some typical communication efforts could be observed in her behaviour, based on the concept of Basal stimulation, by Dr. Andreas Fr?hlich, especially in her respiration, muscle tension, head, eyes, hand and leg movements, and also in secretion. Video recording analyses demonstrated significant changes towards a position of pleasure in her reactions, especially in the following parameters: head and eye movements, palm grips, partial opening of the mouth, changes in muscle tension and depth of a breath, frequently also an increase of salivation. The results indicate the significant effect of using the applications, based on “cause and effect”, together with the influence of room darkening on the pupil’s concentration. As very significant, we can also see the opportunity to use an iPad together with Apple TV, where projection distinctly affects the atmosphere in the room. The existing results show that tablets (iPads) significantly expand the possibilities of working with pupils with severe disabilities and multiple handicaps, and it is an effective tool in activities and services leading to the respect of human dignity for people with severe disabilities as well.