Teaching students with ASD to solve fraction computations using a video modeling instructional package

Abstract

BackgroundWith the surge of intervention research examining ways of supporting students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in inclusive settings, there remains a need to examine how technology supports could enhance students’ learning by offering one size fits one instruction. Furthermore, intervention studies focused on teaching students with ASD how to solve fractions are scarce. AimsThe purpose of this research study was to examine the effects of providing instruction via video modeling (VM), concrete manipulatives, a self-monitoring checklist, and practice for comprehension check on the accuracy of fraction problem solving of three middle school students with ASD. Methods and proceduresThrough the use of single-case multiple probe across students experimental design, we examined whether a functional relation existed between the intervention and students’ improved accuracy of solving simple proper fraction problems. Outcomes and resultsAll three students improved the accuracy of solving simple proper fraction problems from baseline to intervention sessions and two students generalized the skill to solving whole proper fraction problems. Conclusions and implicationsThe intervention consisting of VM and concrete manipulatives along with additional behavioral strategies offers an option for teachers to accommodate diverse learning needs of students with ASD in a variety of settings.