Thesis
The generalization of text-based computer-aided instruction to verbal speech production by students with autism
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Feb 2011
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00007301
Abstract
Autism is a developmental disorder which is defined by deficits in the domains of sociability, communication, and cognitive/behavioral flexibility. Research on language development has focused on the social and communicative aspects of language, but autistic individuals also show deficits in syntax, resulting in a decreased ability to express complex ideas (Eigsti & Bennetto, 2001). Simulated environments that present a controlled and structured educational setting can be created using computer-based strategies. These environments Can provide autistic children with opportunities to train and practice skills. Using computer based instruction for language learning would allow a slowing down of language processing, providing the chance for one to more fully understand what is being taught. In this study we utilized a computer-based program known as Grammar-Trainer (GT) to teach grammar to 12 autistic students who were verbal, but showed weaknesses in language production, particularly in syntax. Utilizing a wait-list design, the participants received 15 or 16 sessions (15-20 minutes per session) of the intervention program over a three week period. We administered a battery of receptive and productive language assessments before and after receiving the intervention. The results indicated that participants made significant improvements on a standardized syntax assessment, as well as significantly less grammatical errors on a verbal elicitation task. The improvement on a verbal elicitation task indicated that the grammatical skills taught in GT may have generalized to verbal productions of utterances that utilize those specific grammatical skills. Though there were limitations to the study design, including a small sample size and a short intervention period, the results are positive evidence of the success of the intervention. This study is a promising step towards future efficacy studies required to examine the benefits GT can provide for autistic students.
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Details
- Title
- The generalization of text-based computer-aided instruction to verbal speech production by students with autism
- Creators
- John T. Dressler Jr.
- Contributors
- Felicia Hurewitz (Advisor) - Drexel University, Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- vii, 82 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Psychological and Brain Sciences (Psychology); College of Arts and Sciences; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991021888770104721