Using a Video Activity Schedule and Social Scripts to Teach Cooperative Game Play and Social Communication to Autistic Children
摘要
Limited research has examined the use of video activity schedules to support cooperative game play and social communication during leisure activities for autistic children. The purpose of this study was to extend previous research by evaluating the effects of a combined intervention package consisting of a video activity schedule and antecedent social scripts on cooperative game play behavior and social communication during a board game. Participants were six autistic children aged 5–9 years, grouped into three dyads, who participated in an inclusive summer camp. A nonconcurrent multiple baseline design across dyads was used to evaluate intervention effects. Visual analysis and nonoverlap of all pairs (NAP) were used to assess outcomes. Results demonstrated a functional relation between the intervention package and correct game play behavior for all participants, with moderate to large effect sizes. However, a functional relation could not be determined for social communication. Findings extend the literature on video activity schedules for leisure skills and highlight the need for more explicit instructional strategies to promote social communication during cooperative play. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.