Work Autonomy 1.9.3

Work Autonomy enhances independence for individuals with disabilities in the workplace by addressing three critical areas that often hinder successful competitive placements: effective communication with coworkers and supervisors, autonomy in managing task analysis and work schedules, and availability of clear information regarding work expectations and productivity metrics. The system has received endorsements from a diverse group of stakeholders including individuals with disabilities, parents, educators, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and vocational rehabilitation specialists, particularly for those with Down syndrome, autism, cognitive disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as individuals recovering from stroke or traumatic brain injury.

The design prioritizes accessibility for users, enabling them to program and track concrete information relevant to their work life. Users can activate any combination of the three available sections: Messages, Schedules, and Production. Each section is adaptable for capturing content through various formats, including video, photos, text, and voice, catering to the specific communication and processing needs of the user.

Video capabilities allow for the documentation of gestures, American Sign Language (ASL), specific actions, and navigational routes. Photographic documentation can provide a relatable reference point by capturing real experiences associated with individuals, locations, or items. The inclusion of voice and text options can function independently or in conjunction with visual elements for enhanced labeling or captioning.

All captured data is securely stored within categorized libraries for efficient retrieval and repeated use. Notably, Work Autonomy employs authentic photographs and recorded voices instead of the typically utilized black line drawings and synthetic vocals found in many picture exchange communication systems (PECS) and other augmentative communication platforms.

The Messages section enables users facing communication challenges to narrate stories across various environments while facilitating dialogues with customers and coworkers. Key features include:

• User-generated communication about personal experiences.
• Sharing narratives between home and work settings regarding special events.
• Preprogrammed messages for routine workplace interactions.
• The “External” section allows capturing messages from others, such as family notifying employers about vacation requests.

The Schedule section empowers users to outline work tasks in sequential order while enabling the breakdown of each task into manageable steps through video, photo, voice, or text formats. The system also includes parameters to visualize job expectations using timers or counters:

• Schedules can be defined in collaboration with employers who outline performance standards.
• Job coaches can be identified as supportive resources for achieving work objectives.
• Tasks can be monitored through various timekeeping methods corresponding to job site requirements.
• Upon initiation, the chosen task is displayed alongside relevant timing tools representing expectations and completed work.

The Production section allows users to visualize their work productivity metrics concretely through graphs that track timed or counted elements of their job responsibilities. Employers can set performance targets on these graphs to clarify expectations:

• Direct communication regarding work performance facilitates transparency between employers and employees.
• Employees are provided with clear information related to work expectations.
• Productivity data can be viewed over daily, weekly, or monthly periods.
• Graphical data can be directly emailed to relevant parties such as employers, coaches, or guardians.

• Adaptive Switch Access
• Apple’s Volume Licensing for Education is available
• Educational tutorials and support videos can be found at www.ableopps.com