Teaching multi-step requesting to children with autism spectrum disorder using systematic instruction and a...

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face challenges in developing complex communication skills, such as multi-step requesting.
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, including speech-generating devices (SGDs), offer potential solutions for improving communication in individuals with ASD.
• Intervention packages combining various behavioral strategies can enhance the acquisition of functional communication skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of an iPad-based speech-generating device (SGD) combined with a comprehensive intervention package.
• To teach multi-step requesting skills to young children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• To assess the maintenance and generalization of the acquired requesting skills and gather social validity data.

Main Methods:

• A multiple-probe-across-participants design was employed with three male participants aged 4-5 years with ASD.
• The intervention package included discrete trial teaching, time delay, graduated guidance, and reinforcement.
• Social validity was assessed through parent and teacher feedback.

Main Results:

• The iPad-based SGD and intervention package proved effective in teaching multi-step requesting to all participants.
• Acquired requesting skills demonstrated maintenance over time and generalization across different materials and individuals.
• Social validity data indicated positive perceptions from mothers and teachers regarding the intervention's effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• The combination of an iPad-based SGD and a structured intervention package is an effective method for teaching multi-step requesting to children with ASD.
• The intervention facilitates skill generalization and maintenance, suggesting its practical utility.
• While generally positive, consideration of parental concerns regarding technology use is important for comprehensive implementation and future research.