The Use of Assistive Technology to Improve Time Management Skills of a Young Adult with an Intellectual Disability

Abstract

A growing literature base suggests the need for positive interventions to help individuals with intellectual disabilities improve their time management skills. Time management is a crucial area that must be addressed in the effort to equip adults with the skills necessary to achieve independence, success in employment, and improved quality of life. Lack of effective time management skills may hinder an individual's ability to gain and maintain successful employment and to live independently. When the primary issue is time management, assistive technology (AT) may provide a simple and cost-effective intervention. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of a vibrating watch to affect the time management skills of a young adult female with an intellectual disability. Results indicate that the vibrating watch was an effective piece of AT that received a high satisfaction rating. Implications of these findings for current practice and the need for future research are discussed.