Motivational factors in vision therapy: comparison of computerized vs. manipulative techniques.
BACKGROUND: Vision therapy (VT) is a learning process that requires the patient to be motivated. Various modalities are used by practitioners to stimulate interest. This study compares the motivating effect of computers and manipulatives (i.e., physical objects that are handled). METHODS: Fifteen subjects were compared on three motivational standards: time on task, negative behaviors and patient choice of procedure; these standards were compared for two computerized VT procedures and two VT procedures using manipulatives. The visual abilities used for therapy were stereopsis and spatial visualization. RESULTS: Although both methods were motivating, the computerized techniques were clearly superior in all three measures for both visual abilities. CONCLUSIONS: Computerized vision therapy is an excellent modality for facilitating motivation for vision therapy.