The Importance of Computerized Early Intervention Programs to Reduce Social Communication Disorders Among a Sample of Children with Disabilities from their Mothers’ Point of View

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the importance of computerized early intervention programs in reducing social communication disorders in children with disabilities from their mothers’ point of view. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the reasons for using these programs the challenges encountered during their usage. The researcher employed a qualitative research methodology to gain a deeper understanding of mothers’ experience. In-depth interviews were conducted with seven mothers of children with disabilities. The study’s data analysis revealed that these programs contribute to reducing social communication disorders in children with disabilities, by developing their social communication skills. The primary reasons for using these programs include the audio-visual stimuli and feedback that engage children. However, the study also highlighted challenges faced by mothers, such as the lack of programs that support the Arabic language and the failure to employ these programs in government special education centers. Based on these findings, the study recommended strengthening early intervention programs with assistive technology and employing them to benefit from them in reducing social communication disorders in children with disabilities and increasing their opportunities for integration into society. It also suggested developing computerized early intervention programs that support the Arabic ls