Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of Direct Instruction for Individuals With Autism Utilizing Speech-Generating Devices.

Abstract

Direct instruction (DI) is an evidence-based approach to education that has been shown to be effective across a wide variety of student populations. Growing evidence suggests that DI may be an efficacious strategy for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The current study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using DI with students with ASD who utilize speech-generating devices (SGDs); 3 students with ASD whose primary mode of communication was an SGD were exposed to the Language for Learning Curriculum, Lessons 1-10. Student performance on pre- and posttests was measured, as well as student performance on exercises within each lesson. The average time to complete an exercise, number of repetitions, number of terminated sessions, and student affect were also evaluated. Results indicated that all 3 students could participate and complete exercises with some modifications to support SGD use. The students demonstrated improved performance, positive affect, and overall timely completion of exercises. Taken together, these findings suggest that DI may be feasible for some students with ASD who utilize SGDs.