Modular Sensory Board for Children with Impairments
Steven Burke, Jennifer Ching, Matt Goodman, and Keenan Sullivan
under the supervision of Dr. Matthew Siniawski
Abstract:
Individuals with sensory impairments may have difficulties completing seemingly simple tasks, and studies have shown that it is crucial to enhance one's sensory aptitude at a young age. This project was specifically designed for WISH Charter Elementary School, which promotes an integrated learning environment by including students with various strengths, needs, and backgrounds into one classroom. This modular sensory board is comprised of a base unit that houses three materials that prompt different sensory responses. Each material insert targets three main senses: touch, auditory, and visual. This sensory board is designed to provide a safe outlet for students who respond positively to haptic feedback in a way that is both enjoyable and rewarding.
Introduction:
The research team was approached by a teacher from WISH Charter Elementary School who had student that had trouble focusing and had a tendency to slam his hands on the table and hit the walls during class. We proposed the idea to build a modular sensory board as a form of reward if the student stayed focused in class. The sensory board must be safe, The idea of a modular sensory board was proposed as a form of reward for the student to focus and complete tasks. This sensory board would be composed of a housing that provided surfaces that the child enjoys playing with.
The sensory board assembly was constructed to house three material inserts at a time. The materials were selected to stimulate the sense of touch. The material inserts are easily replaceable but are built with a childproof lock. The sensory board is intended for use in the classroom to help the child in a mentally stimulating environment. This device is meant to be used by other students as well.
The sensory board assembly was constructed to house three material inserts at a time. The materials were selected to stimulate the sense of touch. The material inserts are easily replaceable but are built with a childproof lock. The sensory board is intended for use in the classroom to help the child in a mentally stimulating environment. This device is meant to be used by other students as well.
Partnership: WISH Charter Elementary School
WISH Charter is a free public charter school that promotes the integration of students with disabilities. The research team is currently collaboraBng with WISH Charter Elementary School on multiple projects, including the modular sensory board. Ms. Caty, one of the teachers at WISH, requested that we design a sensory board as a reward for a specific student as well as his classmates when they behave in class.
Preliminary Design Requirements:
Computer Design Model:
This computer model was designed using SolidWorks. The design included a base that was able to fit three material inserts. The frame was attached to the base using three hinges, allowing the material inserts to easily be accessed (for interchangeability and maintenance). When the frame is locked in the closed position, it safely holds the material inserts in place and prevents the children from being able to remove the material inserts.
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Building the Prototype
Both the sensory board housing and frame were constructed out of wood with metal hardware. The wood first had to be cut down to the proper size and sanded to a smooth finish (pictured above is Steven cutting the wooden planks at Home Depot).
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Once the wood pieces were ready for construction, they were secured together with wood glue, screws, and metal braces. The edges of all the material inserts had to be rounded for fixing and accessibility purposes.
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After the frame and housing of the board were complete, the material inserts were constructed. Each of the materials was attached to a wooden base with a layer of backing in between to add cushion. The sensory materials were attached to the center of the wooden insert, leaving a border of exposed wood where the frame would fit snuggly and hold the inserts in place. A lock was then installed to prevent the children from opening the frame.
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LMU Undergraduate Research Symposium
The finished product was presented at the LMU 6th Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium. The LMU Undergraduate Research Symposium, a discipline-based conference or exhibit, or a published paper are examples of such activity.