ERIC Number: EJ1254212
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020-Jun
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2154-1647
EISSN: N/A
Using Peer-Mediation to Enhance Conversation and Reduce Inappropriate Communication Acts in Adolescents with Autism
Thomas, Amanda; Bambara, Linda M.
Education and Training in Autism and Developmental Disabilities, v55 n2 p185-200 Jun 2020
Pragmatic language difficulties of adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can significantly impact their ability to engage in socially appropriate conversations and form peer relationships. Using a multiple baseline design across participants, this study evaluated the effects of a novel peer-mediated intervention (PMI) on improving the social conversation of three high school students with ASD who engaged in high rates of inappropriate communication acts (e.g., perseveration, abrupt topic shifts). The PMI incorporated peer training, graphic/text cues and direct instruction for the students to reduce inappropriate communications while supporting appropriate initiations and topic maintenance responses. Results revealed that the PMI was highly effective in reducing the inappropriate communication acts of three students and increasing the appropriate communication acts of two students. Conversation gains generalized to untrained peers for all student participants. Social validity outcomes assessing intervention acceptability and conversation were highly positive. This study provides additional evidence that PMI can be individualized to address the unique pragmatic language needs of high school students with ASD.
Descriptors: Peer Mediation, Interpersonal Communication, Communication Skills, Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Intervention, High School Students, Skill Development, Rating Scales, Teaching Methods
Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Council for Exceptional Children. DDD, P.O. Box 3512, Fayetteville, AR 72702. Tel: 479-575-3326; Fax: 479-575-6676; Web site: http://www.daddcec.com/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: High Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Assessments and Surveys: Childhood Autism Rating Scale
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A