Although it is still early to draw a conclusion , available studies are showing promise for use of mobile device apps for treatment of individuals with ASD .
OBJECTIVE The current study was performed to assess the evidence for effects of therapeutic intervention with mobile device applications ( apps ) for individuals with autism spectrum disorder ( ASD ) .
Incorporating a Peer-Mediated Approach Into Speech-Generating Device Intervention: Effects on Communication of Preschoolers With Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Purpose This study examined the effects of incorporating a peer-mediated approach into a speech-generating device ( SGD ) intervention on communication of 45 nonverbal and minimally verbal preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder ( ASD ) and 95 peers without disabilities . The SGD was an iPad 2 ( Apple ) with voice output app . Method Effects were evaluated using a multivariate r and omized control trial design with repeated measures for 4 cohorts across baseline , intervention , generalization , and maintenance phases . Children were r and omly assigned to an experimental treatment that trained peers on use of the SGD or a business-as-usual comparison condition with untrained peers .  Communication outcomes were measured for both children with ASD and peers . Results Children receiving the treatment demonstrated significant increases in rates of communication and more balanced responses and initiations ( a measure of reciprocity ) than children in the comparison group . They were able to generalize improvements and maintain communication gains . Treatment fidelity was high for school staff and peer implementation . Conclusions Results support positive effects on communication of teaching young children with ASD and peers without disabilities to use the same SGD system in typical preschool activities . SGD interventions that utilize peer-mediated approaches may improve core deficits in communication and reciprocity and allow for greater classroom social participation and interactions with peers
Although it is still early to draw a conclusion , available studies are showing promise for use of mobile device apps for treatment of individuals with ASD .
OBJECTIVE The current study was performed to assess the evidence for effects of therapeutic intervention with mobile device applications ( apps ) for individuals with autism spectrum disorder ( ASD ) .