Increasing reading and communication skills in children with autism through an interactive multimedia computer...

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Technology
• Special Education

Background:

• Children with developmental disabilities often face challenges in acquiring reading and communication skills.
• Interactive computer programs offer a potential avenue for supplementary educational support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of the Alpha microcomputer program on reading and communication skills in children with autism, mixed handicaps, and typically developing children.
• To assess the program's effect on verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as enjoyment.

Main Methods:

• Three groups of children (autism, mixed handicaps, typically developing) received the Alpha program as supplementary instruction.
• Reading and phonological development were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up.
• Classroom behavior, including verbal and nonverbal communication and enjoyment, was observed.

Main Results:

• Children with autism showed significant improvements in word reading and phonological awareness, with increased verbal expression and enjoyment.
• Children with mixed handicaps demonstrated similar, though less pronounced, gains in reading skills.
• Typically developing children improved regardless of program use, indicating a ceiling effect or different learning trajectories.

Conclusions:

• Motivating multimedia programs like Alpha can enhance reading and communication in children with developmental disabilities.
• Effective implementation requires individualized approaches, detailed planning, and collaboration among teachers, parents, and clinicians.