Evaluating a computer-training program for individuals with physical disabilities

Abstract

Purpose As increasing numbers of people with disabilities return to the community, it is necessary to equip them with skills to succeed in this technological world. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effect of attendance, satisfaction, goal achievement, and transportation on a goals-based computer-training program for people with physical disabilities (n=130). Design/methodology/approach Regressions, distribution comparisons, and correlations were retrospectively conducted on data from a computer-training program for people with disabilities. Participants were aged 20-100 and were diverse in terms of education, diagnoses, and living situation. Findings Results indicated that people with physical disabilities from diverse demographic and -contextual backgrounds could participate in a goals-based computer-training program. Factors that affected the computer-training program included method of transportation (p=0.034), perception of goal achievement (p=0.000), and attendance rates (p=0.001). A strong correlation was found between support available for computer use and continued computer use (p=0.000). Research limitations/implications Goals-based computer-training approaches that are client-centered may lead to increased perceptions of goal achievement and program satisfaction for people with disabilities, which could be used as outcomes to monitor success of such programs. It is also important to consider the effect of transportation and attendance rates on computer-training programs. However, results of this study were limited by its retrospective nature. Originality/value This study provides empirical data on factors that affect goals-based computer-training programs and evidence for the efficacy of such programs for individuals with disabilities. This can be used for program development and future research.