Using Eye-Tracking Technology as an Art Medium and a Tool of Clinical Intervention in Art Therapy of a Child with Multiple Disabilities

Abstract

The dynamically developing eye-tracking technology is more and more often used in the diagnosis and therapy of children with multiple disabilities for whom sight is the only communication channel. The aim of the article is to show how eye-tracking technology becomes an art medium and can be used as an optimal tool of clinical intervention in art therapy for children with multiple disabilities. The author conducted several-month-long action research in the form of art therapy sessions for twenty-few children with multiple disabilities. She found that the use of eye-tracking as an assistive technology tool (EGAT) in art therapy enables participants to be relatively autonomous and independent in their creative activity. This allows them to express their emotions and reveal their abilities. Eye-tracking introduces a positive change in the well-being and quality of life of children participating in the research. Therefore, contemporary art therapists working with children with multiple disabilities should not limit themselves to traditional art therapy classes focused on strictly sensory experiences, but look for innovative tools and software that will allow children to actively and creatively engage in art therapy.