E-Ucumari: A multimedia device based on ontologies and embedded systems for pedagogical support of children with multi-disabilities

Abstract

In a world where approximately 15% of the population lives with some form of disability one of the most vulnerable groups is constituted by children that present multiple disabilities. For example, in these cases, a child can have cerebral palsy and hearing loss concomitantly. Working with children with multiple disabilities constitutes a challenge, given that they present affectation in several development areas. For these reasons, we have developed a system to support the educational and therapeutic intervention for children with multiple disabilities. Our system relies on an electronic device and an ontology that models some of the most relevant entities and relations of therapy sessions. This proposal has been validated in two stages: (i) a preliminary validation (aesthetic and functionality) with 37 volunteers (higher education students), and (ii) a validation on a real scenario with 6 children with multiple disabilities during a period of two months. The results show high levels of motivation when children work with the device and positive comments by therapists and educators side.