Implementation of information and communication technology to facilitate participation in high school occupations for students with neurodevelopmental disorders

Abstract

Purpose: Information and communication technology (ICT) has been proposed to enable an inclusive learning environment and increased participation for students with special educational needs. The aim of this study was to investigate the perceived need for ICT before and after an individualized ICT intervention among high school students with neurodevelopmental disorders and describe how the ICT was used to improve participation in school activities. Materials and methods: This mixed-method study, with a one-group pre- and post-test design, included 99 high school students with neurodevelopmental disorders. Data from questionnaires and assessments using the School Setting Interview (SSI) were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Deductive content analysis was performed on written notes in the SSI assessment. Results: The results showed that students’ median number of perceived needs for ICT in school activities had decreased from six needs at baseline to one need at follow-up (t16.5 df(98), p