A personal digital assistant for improving independent transitioning in adolescents with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder

作者：Palmen Annemiek^*; Didden Robert; Verhoeven Lisette

来源：Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 2012, 15(6): 401-413.

DOI：10.3109/17518423.2012.701240

• Autism spectrum disorder
• high-functioning youth
• transitions
• visual supports
• personal digital assistant

Objective: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a personal digital assistant (PDA) on independent transitioning between activities in a day treatment centre for youth with high-functioning ASD. %26lt;br%26gt;Methods: Within a multiple baseline design across four participants, data were collected on participant%26apos;s transitioning and staff%26apos;s prompting behaviour. Intervention by staff consisted of one technical instruction session on use of the PDA and non-specific instruction following incorrect transitions while not using the PDA, in the natural setting. %26lt;br%26gt;Results: Analysis revealed a significant increase in percentage independent daily transitions, which resulted from the independent use of the PDA. The change in staff%26apos;s prompt use during intervention was mainly the result of a significant decrease in the use of non-specific prompts in correcting participant%26apos;s transition behaviour. %26lt;br%26gt;Conclusion: A brief intervention was effective in improving independent transitioning using a PDA. Findings are evaluated in light of their clinical implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.

• 出版日期2012