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 ) .
A trial of an iPad™ intervention targeting social communication skills in children with autism
This study evaluated a technology-based early intervention for social communication skills in pre-schoolers in a r and omised controlled trial . Participants were 54 children aged under 6 years with a diagnosis of autism , assigned to either intervention or control conditions . The app engaged children , who played consistently , regardless of developmental level , and was rated highly by parents . There were no significant group differences in parent-report measures post-intervention , nor in a measure of parent – child play at follow-up . Therefore , this intervention did not have an observable impact on real-world social communication skills and caution is recommended about the potential usefulness of iPad ™ apps for amelioration of difficulties in interaction . However , positive attitudes among participants , lack of harms and the potential of apps to deliver therapeutic content at low economic cost suggest this approach is worth pursuing further , perhaps targeting other skill domains
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 ) .