The idea behind the Making Cognitive Connections approach involves learning to use technology while actually becoming aware of the cognitive skills (e.g., attention to detail, critical thinking, etc.) involved in learning the technology. However, this approach isn’t necessarily the best one for everyone-that’s where Making Cognitive Connections comes in. In fact, most of us just start playing with the technology and learn as we go.
Typically, as we learn about a new device, we just want to know how to do a specific task. The device and app training evolved over time and became the Making Cognitive Connections approach, a particular approach to learning new technology-related information. In contrast, training each individual to program his/her own device led to greater independence and helped with the development of many cognitive skills (e.g., attention to detail, following directions, identifying relevant information, etc.). Programming the device for these individuals might have been easier and less time-consuming however, it would also make them more dependent on me, or on whoever programmed the device.
Rather than program the appointments and/or alarms for them, I chose to train the users to program their own devices. It quickly became obvious that the calendar and alarm features were key to helping those with brain injury deal with memory-related issues associated with their injuries. I began using personal digital assistants (PDAs) with individuals with moderate to severe memory impairments approximately 10 years ago. I am an educator with over 25 years experience working with individuals with TBI (traumatic brain injury). Let me start with a brief introduction to my experience with mobile devices and apps.
Most of the apps discussed below are iOS apps however, some of them are also available for Android devices. This article will focus on five super apps-practical apps that can help with day-to-day memory, productivity, and organization.
There are literally hundreds of thousands of apps available for mobile devices from the App Store (Apple iOS) and Google Play Store (Android). Here it has been updated to be current with the release of iOS 8 (September 2014). This article was originally published in the Speech Pathology Newsletter, V6, September 2012.