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Computer technology offers promising new approaches to reducing the dependence of people with mental retardation on others. This article reports results of a beta test of the utility of a Windows CE based multimedia palmtop computer program (Visual Assistant) for use in supporting individuals with mental retardation to more independently complete community-referenced vocational skills. Project personnel identified system requirements that would be required to accommodate the needs of people with mental retardation, and then developed and tested a “proof-of-concept” prototype of the Visual Assistant system. Results from the beta test demonstrated support for using a multimedia training program on a palmtop PC to enhance self-direction of adults with mental retardation in performing community-based vocational tasks. Use of the Visual Assistant prototype resulted in improved task accuracy and decreased use of external prompts from a support person on two different vocational tasks. Implications for use of palmtop and handheld PC technology to increase the independence and self-determination of individuals with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities is considered.
Davies et al. (Sat,) studied this question.