Engaging Adults with Developmental Disabilities Online

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the delivery of instruction for many learners. It was challenging for students across educational settings to adapt to the new way of learning. One group of learners who likely struggled more than others were adults with developmental disabilities (DD) who participate in day habilitation programs. They required increased support to engage in virtual activities. Thus, several interactive instructional methods were incorporated to help those adults acquire knowledge that is transferable to real-world situations and functional life skills. According to Machemer and Crawford (2007, as cited in Vanhorn et al., 2019), active learning is a system that allows learners to think, assess, analyze, integrate, and discuss their newly acquired language. Adults with DD benefit from active learning methods such as role-playing, watching tutorials, or simulations, and cooperative group learning activities. This presentation will highlight ways to motivate and engage adults with DD in online learning environments. By utilizing engaging videoconferencing tools (e.g. breakout rooms and reactions), game-based quizzes, and collaborative games such as professional and job charades, adults with DD learn skills to be successful in the community and at work. Learning through fun, interactive ways may help decrease the anxiety and frustration that some adults with DD experience when learning new information. The interactive tasks will support skill carryover. The presentation will provide a guide for educators and speech-language pathologists to use when implementing instruction for all individuals with developmental disabilities.