Using the Listening2Faces App with Three Young Adults with Autism: A Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Speech-language pathology
• Autism spectrum disorder research
• Assistive technology

Background:

• Audiovisual speech perception is crucial for communication.
• Individuals with autism and complex communication needs often face challenges in speech perception.
• Therapeutic applications can offer tailored support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of the Listening2Faces (L2F) application.
• To evaluate L2F's use with young adults with autism and complex communication needs.
• To explore the effectiveness of behavioral supports for engagement.

Main Methods:

• Three young adults with autism and complex communication needs participated.
• Participants engaged in L2F application training sessions.
• Behavioral supports, including cognitive picture rehearsal, were utilized.
• Descriptive statistics analyzed participation and performance.

Main Results:

• All participants completed the auditory noise assessment and multiple L2F levels.
• One participant successfully completed the entire L2F program.
• Varied engagement levels were observed despite behavioral supports.

Conclusions:

• The L2F application may be a viable intervention for audiovisual speech perception.
• School-based settings are potential environments for L2F implementation.
• Modifications and optimized behavioral supports could enhance L2F for this population.