JSET

JSET Articles Index

Volume 19 Number 4

Internet-Based Multimedia Tests and Surveys for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities
Steven E. Stock, Daniel K. Davies
AbleLink Technologies, Inc.
Michael L. Wehmeyer
University of Kansas

Abstract

Students and adults with intellectual disabilities face multiple obstacles when taking tests, assessments, evaluations, questionnaires, and surveys. Significant impairments in literacy can make common formats for soliciting objective and subjective feedback—such as written questions and answers—inaccessible to many people with intellectual disabilities. This brief report provides results of a pilot test of an Internet-based multimedia testing and assessment system employing audio, video, and picture supports to enable individuals with intellectual disabilities to more independently complete online tests and assessments. Twenty-two adolescents and adults participated in the study. Participants needed an average of 7.5 prompts to complete a traditional written test, while those same individuals required only 2.2 prompts to complete the online version of the test. These results suggest the feasibility of utilizing a selfdirected, multimedia software approach for creating an independent and potentially integrated test-taking format for individuals with intellectual disabilities or literacy challenges.

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