Three children with autism spectrum disorder learn to perform a three‐step communication sequence using an iPad^®‐based speech‐generating device

Abstract

With systematic instruction, children with ASD and severe communication impairment can learn to use an iPad-based SGD to complete multi-step communication sequences that involve requesting and social communication functions.

Effectiveness of the Use of iPads to Enhance Communication and Learning for Students with Autism: A Systematic Review

“…For example, using an iPad-based speech-generating device (SGD) was shown to help students effectively request continuation of toy play [14]. Likewise, using an iPad with Proloquo2Go app may offer an effective intervention for requesting preferred items [8] and performing request and social communication sequence [17]. Another effective communication intervention appears to be the use of iPads with the SonoFlex app to increase communication skills in class activities [20].…”

“…First, for communication skills, four studies included an iPad-based speech-generating device to teach students with autism requesting skills, such as requesting the continuation of toy play [14], or teaching threestep communication sequences [8,17,20]. Three studies used a communication application called Proloquo2Go [8,14,17] and one study used a SonoFlex application [20].…”

“…First, for communication skills, four studies included an iPad-based speech-generating device to teach students with autism requesting skills, such as requesting the continuation of toy play [14], or teaching threestep communication sequences [8,17,20]. Three studies used a communication application called Proloquo2Go [8,14,17] and one study used a SonoFlex application [20]. Second, for teaching academic skills, three studies focused on math skills, such as numeracy [6], price comparison by using video modeling on an iPad [18], or improving math performance and increasing independent task completion through different applications such as a basic math skill app and Matching Game -My First Numbers app [13].…”

“…The most common communication skills included requesting skills, such as independent requests [8,20], independent vocal requests [8], general requests and specific requests [17]. A second requesting skill was responses such as reaching appropriately for a toy [14], striking trainer in response to being offered a toy [14], frequency of vocal responses [8], correct responses [8,14,17,20], and thank you responses [17]. The third requesting skill was comments, specifically thank you [20].…”

“…The second category related to engagement in literacy and math was literacy regarding checking spelling [7], the number of play dialogue utterances [10], independent correct responses on story analysis [15], unprompted correct responses to listening and comprehension questions [15]. Enhanced communication skills were also examined by studies targeting AAC users [8,9,16,14,15,17,20].…”