StepPad: cognitive support tool for multi-step tasks

The new StepPad may be a great resource for individuals who have difficulty completing multiple step tasks by themselves.  With the StepPad, directions that are recorded are played back in a sequence, one step at a time, to prompt the user on what to do next.  The device functions well as both a short-term teaching tool and a long-term adaptive aid.

The StepPad is very mobile and fits into one’s purse, pocket, and hands (even small hands!)  It is comparable to a video game controller as the buttons are easy to press with one’s thumbs.  The volume is easily accessible to one’s index fingers.

How the StepPad works:

  1. Press any of the four activity buttons to activate a step-by-step sequence.  These buttons are easily labeled with a slide-in overlay plus an auditory cue.
  2. Users then hear the steps one step at a time by pressing the “Next” button.  To repeat a step, simply press “Play.”  Users may review previous steps with the “Back” button.
  3. StepPad allows users to record up to 29 steps for each activity.  Within the device, there is an 8 activity limit (four activities, two levels) yielding up to 240 step-by-step recordings.
    • “But don’t worry, it’s no big deal if you make a mistake.  You can re-record any step without affecting other recordings.  You can even insert a new step within a sequence while keeping all steps intact.  You can also choose to lock StepPad into just a single activity, reducing the possibility of a user getting ‘lost’ and locking out the record and level changing functions.”

Features of the StepPad:

  • Eight activities, 30 steps each
  • Shared recording memorysteppad
  • Ergonomic design
  • Quick access to core messages
  • Headphone jack
  • Record, level, and activity lock
  • Built-in lanyard loops and belt loop slot

Uses:

  • Household chores
  • School schedule
  • Personal routines
  • Vocational tasks
  • Cooking steps
  • Shopping lists
  • Activity transitions

To learn more, check out the StepPad’s User Guide.

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