This review evaluated the effects of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) on speech development in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD); replicated, updated, and extended the systematic review by Schlosser and Wendt (American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology 17:212-230, 2008). Twenty-five single case design articles and…

The effectiveness of using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) with individuals with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is well documented in descriptive reviews and meta-analytic investigations published in international journals in the last decade. Most of these analyses include researches conducted in North-American or European…

For children with autism or intellectual and developmental disabilities who also have complex communication needs, communication is a necessary skill set to increase independence and quality of life. Understanding the how, where, and communication style being taught is important for identifying deficits in the field as well as which interventions…

This paper provides an overview of five review studies that analyzed 92 single subject studies on the effectiveness of major augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems for individuals with developmental disabilities including autism. This paper offers recommendations useful for AAC decision-making points. Research on the…

In the present study, we aimed to make an evaluation, conduct comprehensive descriptive analyses, and calculate the effect sizes of studies which compare AAC applications designed according to single-subject research designs and conducted for individuals with ASD. Within the scope of this aim, 21 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were…

Facilitated communication (FC) has been interpreted as an ideomotor phenomenon, in which one person physically supports another person's hand and unconsciously affects the content of the writing. Despite the strong experimental evidence against the authenticity of FC output, several studies claim to support its validity based on idiosyncrasies…

Visual supports are recommended in autism spectrum disorder clinical guidelines. They can reduce anxiety, increase predictability, support communication and improve participation. They are implemented regularly in schools, but evidence about home visual supports is limited. This article reports results of a scoping literature review, alongside…

Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) often demonstrate delays in early language and literacy skills. Shared reading, the practice of adults reading aloud to children while using behaviors (e.g., asking questions) that are meant to promote interaction between the adult and child, is an intervention that has had positive effects on those…

The adoption of methods and strategies validated through rigorous, experimentally oriented research is a core professional value of special education. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the experimental literature on Technology-Aided Instruction and Intervention (TAII) using research identified as part of the National…

This paper provides an overview of the literature investigating the functional relationship between the use of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and maladaptive behavior (i.e., aggression, tantrums) in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Digital searches were conducted to identify single subject design studies…

Clinical Question: Would a minimally verbal toddler with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) benefit more from implementation of the Picture Exchange Communication System® (PECS®) or Pivotal Response Treatment® (PRT®) to increase communication initiations of his wants/needs? Method: Literature review of evidence-based practice (EBP) Intervention…

Autism is currently one of the most prominent and widely discussed human conditions. Its increased prevalence has intensified the demand for effective educational and therapeutic services, and intervention science is providing mounting evidence about practices that positively impact outcomes. The purpose of this report is to describe a set of…

Although positive peer relationships can facilitate the academic learning, skill development, and emotional well-being of students with complex communication challenges, few peer interactions are likely to take place in school settings apart from intentional intervention and support efforts. We conducted a systematic review to identify and examine…

This literature review examines the present level of evidence in support of communication-based treatments for children with autism spectrum disorders. Reviews to date have reported on research published through 2002. The current article included 36 studies published between 2002 and 2007. Best available evidence is presented for seven treatment…

This article examines recent rulings in litigation pertaining to the education of children with autism, including cases addressing the following issues: appropriate educational placement, extended school year services, the use of aversive contingencies to control behavior, and the use of facilitated communication and other forms of augmented…