Authors

Amber Busay

Publication Date

12-2012

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Degree

Master of Arts in Education (MA)

MA Concentration

Special Education, Special Education Autism Spectrum Disorder

Advisors

Linda Haymes, Pamela A. Redmond, Jim O'Connor

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare computer-based instruction to teacher-based instruction for children with autism. More specifically, the aim was to evaluate the rate of acquisition of academic and language skills, generalization of these skills to other environments and behavioral compliance to the specific method of instruction. The computer based instructional method incorporated a commercially designed product for young students with autism. The teacher based instructional method is well researched and similar to discrete trial training within Applied Behavior Analysis. This form of instruction has been shown to be highly effective with children with autism especially in rates of acquisition of academic and language skills. However, it is possible that computer-based instruction enhances the child's motivation to learn. With a higher motivation to learn, children will reach a larger acquisition rate of skills in a shorter amount of time.

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