The effects of AAC video visual scene display technology on the communicative turns of preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder.

Over 40% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience difficulty in using speech to meet their daily communication needs. Although augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can be of benefit, the AAC intervention must support beginning communicators in the early social interactions that provide the foundation for more sophisticated communication skills. An AAC video visual scene display approach uses an AAC app (provided on a tablet computer), including videos based on the interests of the child and infused with AAC supports, to provide opportunities for social interaction and communication between the child and the communication partner.

The Effects of Shared e-Book Reading With Dynamic Text and Speech Output on the Single-Word Reading Skills of Young Children With Developmental Disabilities.

Purpose This study investigated the use of a new software feature, namely, dynamic text with speech output, on the acquisition of single-word reading skills by six children with developmental disabilities during shared e-book reading experiences with six typically developing peers. Method A single-subject, multiple-probe design across participants was used to evaluate the effects of the software intervention. Six children with developmental delays were the primary focus for intervention, while six children with typical development participated as peer partners in intervention activities.