Effects Of A Leisure Education Program On Social Knowledge And Skills Of Youth With Cognitive Disabilities

A study using a single subject multiple baseline design across four participants (one girl, three boys, ages 11-13 years) with disabilities (mild mental retardation, Down syndrome, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, visual impairment) was used to assess effects of a leisure education program on social knowledge and skills demonstrated during leisure participation. Instructional strategies included use of a computer-assisted leisure education program and experiential learning activities (e.g., role-play, modeling). Participants' social knowledge was assessed using a computer program and their social skills were examined using videotaped observations of participants during organized recreation activities. Although increases in social knowledge scores were maintained 10 weeks post intervention and the project goals and intervention were reported to be socially significant, appropriate, and important by staff and significant others, participants did not demonstrate improvements in targeted social skills used in leisure participation. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.