USING VIDEO MODELING DELIVERED THROUGH IPODS TO TEACH VOCATIONAL TASKS TO YOUNG ADULTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS (ASD)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of using video modeling delivered through a Portable media player (video iPod) as a means of teaching three job-related tasks to four young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in a community-based employment setting. The videos used in the study were enhanced by adding written instructions to a blank white screen prior to the step being modeled. Videos for two of the individuals were further enhanced with voiceovers of the written instructions. The effectiveness of the video modeling was evaluated using a multiple probe across tasks design. Results indicated that the introduction of the video iPod was associated with immediate and substantial gains in the percentage of steps the young adults were able to complete correctly. All of the participants demonstrated maintenance of the acquired tasks. In addition, all four of the young adults were able to use the video iPod independently to access and watch the videos. Social validity data indicated that using an iPod was a socially acceptable and appropriate way to deliver a video modeling intervention in some vocational settings.