JSET

JSET Articles Index

Volume 22 Number 2

Electronic Performance Support Systems: An Assistive Technology Tool for Secondary Students with Mild Disabilities
Katherine Mitchem, Jason Kight, Gail Fitzgerald, Kevin Koury, and Thitinun Boonseng

Abstract

This article presents the results of a qualitative study investigating the usability and perceived effectiveness of StrategyTools^TM, an electronic performance system support designed for secondary students with mild disabilities to use independently in classroom and home situations. The StrategyTools software contains 39 computerized research-based strategy tools to support learning, behavior, and transition in high school and beyond. Two special education teachers each used the software with their high school students for one semester. Interviews were subsequently conducted with the two teachers and four students with behavior disorders who used the software. Interview responses were analyzed inductively for themes related to benefits, concerns, and usability. Design features of the software, the systems to support use of the software, and results of the qualitative analysis are reported. Recommendations for future research and suggestions for use of the StrategyTools software and support system are provided.

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