Technology and Disability

This paper presents findings on the role of online traveller information services in regional public transport for older people and people with functional limitations. An explanatory mixed methods design was used. A quantitative questionnaire study of the target group's need of traveller information and use of online traveller information services provided the basis for a qualitative focus group study of their attitudes towards online traveller information services in public transport and their perceptions of traveller information's role in their travel habits. The key findings suggest that the essential influence of access to traveller information through online traveller information services on the travel of older people and people with functional limitations is the reassurance that these services offer. This results in confidence that enables secure travel which in turn enables the older traveller or traveller with functional limitations to cope with possible difficulties during the journey. Thus there is a point in offering high quality traveller information to such people through online traveller information services. The point however, is not necessarily that they should undertake more journeys by public transport, but rather that when they travel they can do so confidently.

The purpose of this study was to finalize the standardization of the Assessment of Computer Task Performance for children. Objectives were to obtain descriptive sample data for each age group from 5 to 10 years, identify factors associated with performance, and examine the inter-rater reliability, internal consistency and construct validity of the test in a sample of typically developing children (without impairments). The measure is composed of five standardized and timed keyboard tasks and five standardized and timed mouse tasks. The test was administered to a sample of 524 children recruited from schools and summer camps. Descriptive results for each age group are presented (mean, standard deviation, etc.) and factors associated with performance were identified. Thirty children underwent a second administration by a different evaluator to examine inter-rater reliability. Factors associated with performance were age, level of education and internet use; these factors are primarily associated with keyboard tasks. Gender and hand dominance were not associated with performance. The Assessment of Computer Task Performance for children has satisfactory metric characteristics and provides a standardized method of evaluating computer performance in young children. It may be used for various clinical and research purposes related to the use of the computer.

Poor sleep is common amongst older people living in residential care facilities. Solutions based on pharmacological therapies and improved nursing care have been investigated, but to date no co-ordinated analysis of the potential of technology to improve sleep quality has been undertaken in this context. To explore this area, this study applied a four-stage user-centred design process, which included identification and prioritisation of areas of need; exploration of design requirements; and development of physical prototypes. A relational model has been developed mapping major factors that contribute to poor sleep to specific areas of user need. Potential solutions to address difficulties with nocturnal anxiety and relaxation were identified, refined, developed and trialled with participants. Results indicate that the solutions may help improve sleep quality and provide evidence of the usefulness of the user-centred design process.