Article

Youth with disabilities are under-represented in science, technology,
engineering, and math (STEM) in school and in the workforce.
One encouraging
approach to engage youth's interest in STEM is through robotics; however, such
programs are mostly for typically developing youth. The purpose of this study was
to understand the development and implementation of an adapted robotics program
for children and youth with disabilities and their experiences within it. METHOD:
Our mixed methods pilot study (pre- and post-workshop surveys, observations, and
interviews) involved 41 participants including: 18 youth (aged 6-13), 12 parents
and 11 key informants. The robotics program involved 6, two-hour workshops held
at a paediatric hospital. RESULTS: Our findings showed that several adaptations
made to the robotics program helped to enhance the participation of children with
disabilities. Adaptations addressed the educational/curriculum, cognitive and
learning, physical and social needs of the children. In regards to experiences
within the adapted hospital program, our findings highlight that children enjoyed
the program and learned about computer programming and building robots.
CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians and educators should consider engaging youth with
disabilities in robotics to enhance learning and interest in STEM. Implications
for Rehabilitation Clinicians and educators should consider adapting curriculum
content and mode of delivery of LEGO((R)) robotics programs to include youth with
disabilities. Appropriate staffing including clinicians and educators who are
knowledgeable about youth with disabilities and LEGO((R)) robotics are needed.
Clinicians should consider engaging youth with disabilities in LEGO((R)) to
enhance learning and interest in STEM.

Langue : ANGLAIS