Many important inventions in the world are the result of collaborative efforts. Dr. Wong King-shui Phyllis advocates for self-determination and life planning for people with intellectual disabilities. Through extensive collaboration, her team started from scratch, recruiting subjects, repeatedly researching solutions, and producing instructional videos. Finally, this year, their e-learning resources were successfully launched.
Despite the poor weather on the day of the launch and sharing event last month, with the Observatory issuing yellow and red rainstorm warnings, over 400 people attended to witness the achievements. Both on and off stage, there was a palpable sense of excitement and satisfaction.
The Electronic Learning Resources Launching and Sharing Session on “By Me, Not for Me” for Supporting People With Intellectual Disabilities in Life-Planning was successfully held on Saturday, September 21, 2024. Dr. Wong first shared the research foundation, participant spectrum, and the development history of promoting self-determination in local adult services. It turns out that from concept creation, staff training, to service delivery, the promotion process took nearly 30 years.
Through the effectiveness study of the self-determination group, it was found that people with intellectual disabilities also have diverse personal goals. Their wishes are quite interesting: losing 10 pounds, being a guest at a concert, inviting their family for a dim sum meal, etc. Their “supporters” also shared on stage in a lively “drama” format, illustrating the emotional connection, empathy, and respect enhanced through ups and downs in the communication process of the project.
Wu Chun Tao (Gary), a member of Caritas Lok Hui – Regional Support Centre who participated in the APP and video production, said he was very engaged and enjoyed it. He proactively suggested that the APP should cater to the different needs of friends with intellectual disabilities, such as adding voice prompts and voice input for those with reading and writing difficulties. “Being on camera” was a happy experience for Gary, giving him an opportunity to showcase his talents. Once, during the process of filming instructional videos, recording, and rehearsing lines, he noticed the female lead, Ah Shan, was very nervous, so he comforted her with her favorite LINE FRIENDS toy. The author believes we should learn from friends with intellectual disabilities on how to care for others.
Eddie Chan, manager of the Lok Chi Association, said in an interview that members have many opportunities for “self-determination” in their daily commutes to the center. The APP’s appearance has made them more adept at solving life problems. In recent years, “scams” have been rampant, and when they feel confused, they can use the APP to clarify their goals and needs, avoiding traps. Therefore, the APP is very suitable for center members. Additionally, members who participated in the filming work reported that “being the protagonist is very fun,” and their families better understand their children’s wishes, fostering mutual understanding and growth.
Alex Wong from the Wai Ji Christian Service said in an interview that members were very interested in participating in the APP testing and provided feedback at different stages. The APP serves as a good reminder for colleagues, giving space for people with intellectual disabilities to have choices. Alex sincerely hopes to hear more experience sharing from colleagues, which not only helps handle daily cases but also supports people with intellectual disabilities in enhancing their ability of life planning.
Edit: The Office of Research and Knowledge Transfer Service, CUHK
