Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapeutic approach for autism that is based on the principles of behavioral theory, learning, and positive reinforcement. Current research shows that early and intensive ABA intervention is effective in reducing dysfunctional behaviors and promoting learning and enactment of socially appropriate behaviors. In this context, new approaches that attempt to integrate advanced technologies can play a key role. This experimental protocol aims to test whether the use of advanced technologies, such as tablets, as part of an intervention for a group of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is more effective than the traditional approach implemented in a control group of children with ASD. The experimental protocol is aimed at enhancing cognitive skills, increasing new skills and acquiring functional/adaptive behaviors.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
30
The main objective of the experimental protocol is to promote the development of cognitive skills, facilitate the acquisition of new skills and promote the adoption of functional and adaptive behaviors. The use of Applied Behavior Analysis procedures, with the help of technological tools such as a tablet or robot can facilitate the increase of new knowledge and skills. The criterion is acquired if the subject emits 8 out of 10 independent correct responses (90%) for 3 consecutive sessions. The objective is to test whether the technological tool used (tablet or robot) can make the proposed learning procedure more effective. The experimental group carries out the procedure by means of stimuli presented on tablets or robots.
The main objective of the experimental protocol is to promote the development of cognitive skills, facilitate the acquisition of new skills and promote the adoption of functional and adaptive behaviors. In this group the materials are traditional, such as image printed. The criterion is acquired if the subject emits 9 out of 10 independent correct responses (90%) for 3 consecutive sessions. The control group performs the procedure with images printed on A4 laminated sheets.
Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB) - National Research Council (CNR)
Messina, Italy
RECRUITINGVerbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP)
Is an assessment tool that attends to all those skills that are fundamental to the development and enhancement of verbal communication skills and the proper use of language in social interactions. It focuses especially on the assessment of language prerequisites fundamental to the development of verbal behavior in accordance with the classification of verbal operants proposed by Skinner: mand, tact, echoic, intraverbal. It consists of a manual, a protocol and a set of materials (pictures and standardized items for assessment). The protocol is divided into: * Tables * Early Echoic Skills Assessment (EESA) - Assessment of barriers: behaviors that might hinder the child's learning * Assessment of transitions: the child's ability to make the transition to teaching modes based on the natural context * Task Analysis and Skills Monitoring: describes the individual milestones required to reach the main milestone * Scoring grids
Time frame: the test need approximately 1 hour
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