Behavioral improvements associated with computer-assisted instruction for children with developmental disabilities.

TLDR

TeachTown is a computer‑assisted instruction program that applies ABA principles to teach a range of skills to young children. The study examined whether TeachTown improves receptive language, cognitive, and social skill acquisition in children with autism and developmental delays, and whether it impedes spontaneous language and social behaviors. Researchers used pre‑test/post‑test and multiple‑baseline designs and evaluated social validity with parents, teachers, and clinicians. Results showed that TeachTown enhanced social‑communication and reduced inappropriate behaviors, highlighting its potential for children with autism.

Abstract

TeachTown is a new computer-assisted instruction (CAI) program that utilizes best-practices ABA to teach a variety of skills to young children. Study 1 investigated the effect of the software on the acquisition of receptive language, cognitive, and social skills by 4 children with autism and 4 children with other developmental delays using a pre-test/post-test design. Social validity with parents, teachers, and clinicians was also assessed. Study 2 used a multiple-baseline design across the 4 children with autism to investigate whether CAI impeded the children’s spontaneous use of language and social behaviors. Results suggested that the computer-assisted instruction actually enhanced social-communication and decreased inappropriate behaviors. Results are discussed in terms of the potential of using CAI programs for children with autism.