Smart Steps Mobile 1.0.29

Smart Steps, initiated by an educator, is a mobile application designed to assist high school and college students with various learning challenges such as autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, traumatic brain injury, and other related disabilities. This resource proves beneficial in diverse environments, including workplace settings, academic situations, and social interactions, making it particularly valuable for individuals navigating new experiences.

The app functions through a structured Decision Tree approach, guiding users through everyday scenarios step-by-step. Features integrated within the app provide timely social skills support, reminders, and safety tips, effectively assisting users in managing tasks. The experience culminates in either a Success screen or an option for additional help when necessary.

Among the notable features are:

• Read-Aloud buttons that enhance user engagement and comprehension.
• A Profile Screen for personalized user experiences.
• A Map button facilitating location-based support.

Users have the flexibility to select which Decision Trees are accessible within the app or create their own tailored options. Additionally, the app allows for storage of emergency contacts for quick access via phone call or text, contingent on device capabilities.

The Decision Tree Maker is a notable highlight, enabling users to modify existing trees or design new ones. Customization options include altering colors and uploading relevant images.

Smart Steps is available in two tiers:

• Free Plan: Offers access to basic Decision Trees, a Profile feature, a Map, and Read-Aloud functionalities.
• Decision Tree Maker Plan: Provides enhanced features including the ability to store emergency contacts, create personalized Decision Trees, and customize button colors and images.

For organizations or groups, there are Group Plans available that accommodate two or more licenses, allowing confidential sharing of resources within a team.

Interested users can download the app and establish a free account via SmartSteps4me.com. A sample scenario can also be explored through an illustrative cartoon available at this link.

The development of Smart Steps was facilitated by the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Wireless Technologies (Wireless RERC), supported by a grant from the National Institute on Community, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under grant number 90RE5007-01-00.