Communication Responses of an Indian Student with Autism to Music Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the communication responses of a male subject with autism towards music intervention. Interview and observation results revealed that the subject had typical autistic communication impairments before the music education sessions. A single-case-single-site qualitative action research design was used to inquire into the verbal and non-verbal interactions, singing as well as the reading skills of the subject. Research findings through observations, video recording and interview with the class teacher revealed that the subject had obvious improvement in his verbal and non-verbal interactions as well as his reading and singing skills after intervention. Finally, recommendations for conducting music interventions were given.