iPods for Autism

APPLETON - iPods are often relegated to backpacks when the bell sounds. But Sarah Hall is making the popular piece of technology a centerpiece in her classrooms.

"I had been seeing a lot of things on the internet about parents finding out that their child with Autism has picked up their iPhone and they notice now how much they used their iPhones, so they ended up getting their own iTouch and it exploded," said Hall.

That sparked the speech and language pathologist to apply for a state grant. Hall has now been using iPod Touches -- which have many applications from music to e-books and games -- for about three weeks with seven Autistic students at Wilson Middle School and West High School.

"I think the big thing we've seen is how intuitively the kids have picked them up," said Hall. "We really thought there'd be a lot of teaching involved. We didn't realize how easily the kids would take to them."

There are several Autism specific applications, or apps as they're known, for the iPod. From communication programs for non verbal students, to scheduling and independence aids.

"I like the iPod better," said Zach Morris, a Wilson 8th grader with Autism. "I use it every day."

Because of the success with students like Zach, Wilson Middle School's principal is considering using the technology in mainstream classrooms.

"We're actually going to be meeting with an Apple rep. and discussing the possible purchase of complete classroom set for a larger class room size," said John Magas. "Part of it is because we've seen the success of the pilot program Ms. Hall has put together."

"I think that it really sparked interest district wide and I've even been getting e-mails from people outside the state," said Hall.

As of now the iPods are being used throughout the school day with the students. Hall says they are looking into the benefits of possibly sending them home as well.