The Use of Peer Networks to Increase Communicative Acts of Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders. (December 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kamps, Debra; Mason, Rose; Thiemann-Bourque, Kathy; Feldmiller, Sarah; Turcotte, Amy; Miller, Todd
• Is Part Of: Focus on autism and other developmental disabilities. Volume 29:Number 4(2014:Dec.)
• Page Start: 230
• Page End: 245
• Publication Date: 2014-12
• Subjects: autism spectrum disorders -- communication -- peer training; Autism in children -- Periodicals; Autistic children -- Education -- Periodicals; Autism -- Periodicals; Developmental disabilities -- Periodicals; 616.8982
• DOI: 10.1177/1088357614539832
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1088-3576

Abstract

Peer networks including social groups using typical peers, scripted instruction, visual text cues, and reinforcement were examined with students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A multiple baseline design across four participants was used to measure students' use of communication acts with peers during free play following instruction. Peer Network groups occurred over a 3-month period for 30 min 3 times per week. Visual inspection of trends and TauU effect size calculations showed significant changes in total communication acts for all four participants during peer network sessions and increased initiations for three of the four participants. Generalization probes during classroom centers indicated increased communications following interventions for three of the four participants.