Using an iPad-based video modelling package to teach numeracy skills to a child with an autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of a video modelling package to teach a 5 year-old boy diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) basic numeracy skills. The treatment package consisted of iPad-based video modelling, gradual fading of video prompts, reinforcement, in vivo prompting and forward chaining.Methods: A single subject multiple baseline across numerals design with generalization and maintenance observational measures.Results: Clear gains were evident in the participant's ability to identify and write the Arabic numerals 1–7 and comprehend the quantity each numeral represents in association with the lagged intervention. Generalization and maintenance data demonstrated the robustness of the treatment effects.Conclusions: IPad-based video modelling, when used in a package, can be an effective technique for teaching numeracy skills to children with an ASD. Systematic replication of this study with different participants is warranted.