Comparing Book- and Tablet-Based Picture Activity Schedules: Acquisition and Preference.

Area of Science:

• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Developmental Psychology
• Assistive Technology

Background:

• Picture activity schedules (PAS) are visual tools to support task completion.
• Traditionally presented in book format, PAS are increasingly evaluated on digital devices.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often involves challenges with executive function and task sequencing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the acquisition efficiency of book-based versus tablet-based picture activity schedules.
• To assess participant preference between book- and tablet-based modalities for picture activity schedules.

Main Methods:

• Three young boys diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) participated.
• Participants were trained to use picture activity schedules in both book and tablet formats.
• A concurrent-chains preference assessment was used to determine modality preference post-training.

Main Results:

• Acquisition rates for picture activity schedules showed marginal differences between book and tablet formats.
• Participant preference for either the book- or tablet-based schedule was idiosyncratic, varying among individuals.

Conclusions:

• Both book- and tablet-based picture activity schedules are viable tools for individuals with autism.
• The choice between book- and tablet-based modalities may depend on individual user preference.
• Further research can explore factors influencing preference in digital versus traditional visual supports.