Silvia Artoni, Maria Claudia Buzzi, Marina Buzzi, Claudia Fenili, Barbara Leporini, Simona Mencarini and Caterina Senette
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific method for modelling human behavior, successfully applied in the context of Autism. Recording and sharing measurable data (on…
Abstract
Purpose
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific method for modelling human behavior, successfully applied in the context of Autism. Recording and sharing measurable data (on subjects’ performance) between caregivers guarantees consistency of learning programs and allows monitoring the learning enhancements. Data are usually recorded on paper, which requires considerable effort and is subject to error. The purpose of this paper is to describe a portable application developed to support ABA tutors in their work with autistic subjects. It allows gathering data from ABA sessions, giving tutors rapid access to information, also in graphical formats.
Design/methodology/approach
The tool was designed via participatory design. Various ABA team members were involved, in order to make the application respond perfectly to their needs. The approach aims to ensure maximum usability, while minimizing errors and ambient interference.
Findings
The use of mobile devices (i.e. tablets or smartphones) allows mobility and ease of interaction, enabling efficient data collection and processing. Data plotting allows one to easily interpret gathered data.
Social implications
The proposed application, free open source software, can be a valuable aid for supporting the ABA intervention and favor the inclusion of children with autism.
Originality/value
Available software to assist tutors during therapy sessions is often proprietary, and research prototypes are not freely available, so paper forms are still widespread. Besides, without attention to usability requirements, assisting tools would be comparable in efficiency with data insertion on paper. Our software was specifically designed following ABA principles and favors efficient data entry allowing natural interaction with touch screen interfaces: drag and drop, taps and gestures. Furthermore, it is shared in the public domain.
Details
Keywords
Luca Vascelli and Silvia Iacomini
This study aims to explore the impact of precision teaching (PT) on living skills in an individual with Dravet syndrome (DS). Focusing on a core case of a 14-year-old with DS, it…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the impact of precision teaching (PT) on living skills in an individual with Dravet syndrome (DS). Focusing on a core case of a 14-year-old with DS, it assesses the role of PT in mastering the daily living skill of putting on a jacket, integrating a component-composite approach.
Design/methodology/approach
The research adopts a within-subject design, emphasising the transition from component skills to composite skills in daily living tasks. Using an environmental modification, it tracks the participant’s progress in putting on a jacket pre- and post-PT intervention.
Findings
Significant enhancements in the independent execution of putting on a jacket were observed, highlighting PT’s effectiveness in refining living skills in DS. The study offers valuable insights into the component-composite framework of skill acquisition and the use of environmental modifications.
Research limitations/implications
While improvements were noted, the study suggests further research to promote the long-term sustainability of PT’s impact on living skills in DS.
Practical implications
The study underscores PT’s practical benefits in enhancing daily living skills among DS individuals. It provides a strategic model for educators and therapists focusing on skill development.
Social implications
This research emphasises the importance of specialised, effective teaching methods like PT in fostering independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities, advocating for tailored educational approaches.
Originality/value
This investigation examines the efficacy of PT for developing living skills in DS; it contributes novel perspectives to special education and therapeutic interventions.