One of the biggest challenges for people who struggle with staying on task is following a schedule throughout the day. Not long ago, Senior Assistive Technology (AT) Consultant Jeannie Krull published a wonderful 4 part series all about different types of scheduler and task management apps that can help people with Autism, and many others, stay on task:
- Visual Schedules and Task Managers: Apps for Autism and Beyond! Part 1
- Part 2-Visual Schedules and Task Managers: Apps for Autism and Beyond!
- Part 3-Visual Schedules and Task Managers: Apps for Autism and Beyond!
- Part 4-Visual Schedules and Task Managers: Apps for Autism and Beyond!
We have also explored and discussed other wearable devices that help remind people whats next, to stay on task, or not to forget an important event:
- The Pebble: A Watch With A Promising Assistive Technology Future
- Watchminder: Get Personalized Vibrating Reminders Without a Smartphone!
What happens when you pair wearable technology with a scheduler app?
Octopus is the first icon-based watch that teaches good habits and the concept of time. Octopus is intended for children aged 3 to 8 years old.
- It’s a watch. It gives the time with icons, making it the first clock that users can actually read and understand. It helps people conceptually link time to events.
- It’s a scheduler, which helps foster responsibility, independence and self-esteem. Parents or caregivers can program visual reminders from their smartphone that pop up on the user’s watch (icon+vibration).
- It’s an assistant that helps parents and caregivers prioritize expectations and stay consistent with daily routines. It provides tips and personal notes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNlyGdBPfFs
Although Octopus is intended for children, like with all assistive technology, if the device is what is the best solution for the individual at hand then it will be used! If this smartwatch really takes off, I would love to see more style options for different age groups. Although you can use other smartwatches and apps to do what this watch does, the design and simplicity of this watch is what really makes it different from its competitors. I love the easy-to-use charging station, simple buttons, and flexible scheduling app. I see this device primarily used by indivdiuals with disabilities who need a little support from a caregiver to remain independent throughout their day.
Right now the Octopus smartwatch is paving its way on Kickstarter. I cannot wait to see where the Octopus smartwatch, and other technology like it, goes!