A Preliminary Investigation into Teaching Adolescents with Autism to Use Apps to Solve Problems

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Background:

• Limited research exists on web-based applications for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• Investigating technology as a precurrent response to improve problem-solving skills in ASD learners is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of using mobile applications as a tool for problem-solving in adolescents with ASD.
• To assess the generalization of learned app-based problem-solving skills across different questions and contexts.

Main Methods:

• A multiple baseline design across behaviors was employed, training two adolescents with ASD on map, weather, and clock apps.
• Training involved progressively introduced steps to identify essential components for app utilization.
• Generalization was assessed using novel questions, different applications, and varied response modalities.

Main Results:

• One participant (Gavin) showed rapid progress and generalization across novel questions, apps, and vocal responses.
• The other participant (Phoebe) required more intensive training but eventually generalized skills to new questions.
• The study highlights the potential of app-based interventions for developing problem-solving abilities.

Conclusions:

• Web-based applications can be effectively used to teach problem-solving skills to adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.
• The findings support the expansion of technology-based interventions to enhance practical skills for individuals with ASD.
• Skinner's analysis provides a framework for understanding the acquisition of these technology-mediated problem-solving behaviors.