El uso de Makey Makey para mejorar las funciones ejecutivas en niños con autismo.

Abstract

This study addresses the problem of limited development of executive functions in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), affecting their school and social performance. Based on this need, the general objective was to strengthen executive functions through the implementation of the Makey Makey device as a technological tool to improve attention, working memory, cognitive flexibility, impulse control, planning and motivation in daily activities in the educational environment. The methodology adopted was quantitative, descriptive and quasi-experimental, applied to two subjects diagnosed with ASD (one with grade 3 autism and the other with grade 1). The intervention was carried out during two months, with 30 sessions, developing activities designed to stimulate the six dimensions mentioned. Data were collected using a structured instrument validated by experts with scales and coded items, assessing skills before and after the intervention. The results were statistically analyzed using the paired samples ttest and showed statistically significant differences between pre and post measurements,

reflecting notable improvements in all dimensions, especially in motivation and planning.

Likewise, a reduction in the standard deviation and coefficients of variation was observed,

indicating

greater homogeneity and consistency in the data. In conclusion, the use of Makey Makey proved to be an effective and viable tool to strengthen executive functions in children with ASD, promoting both their cognitive development and their pedagogical inclusion.