Exploring change in young children's power mobility skill following several months' experience.

CONCLUSION: Positive change was demonstrated with most children (n = 39; 84.78%) changing at least one ALP phase during the study. Positive change was seen with children at all phases of tool-use, using all devices and access methods. Process and task-based measures were highly correlated, but differed in application for different learner groups. Different trajectories of skill development may be associated with different child profiles and access abilities. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Children at all phases of tool-use can demonstrate positive change in power mobility skill using different devices and switch as well as joystick access methods The Assessment of Learning Powered mobility use (ALP) is useful for assessing tool-use and learning process skills for young children across the power mobility skill continuum. Task-based measures may also be helpful for guiding training and recording progress; The Power Mobility Training Tool (PMTT) is most useful for children exploring cause-effect and direction (ALP Phases 1-5), while the Power Mobility Program (PMP) is most useful for functional learners and those progressing from exploring direction to functional use (ALP Phases 5-8). Access method may influence power mobility learning trajectory and training. PMID: 33245243 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Disability and Rehabilitation. Assistive Technology. - Category: Rehabilitation Authors: Tags: Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol Source Type: research