The Apple iPad as Assistive Technology for Story-Based Interventions

Abstract

Literacy-based behavioral interventions expand the work of Gray (2004) to enhance social understanding and change the behavior of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. In addition, visually based assistive technologies (e.g., Picture Exchange Communication System®/picture schedules) have been used to foster communication, provide structure, and change behavior for these same individuals. This study explores the use of the Apple iPad2 as an assistive technology device to deliver literacy-based behavioral interventions and Social Stories™ to students ages 3–11 with autism spectrum disorder enrolled in an extended school year program. Adaptations, strategies for making video Social Stories, and other suggestions for teachers who use this technology also are discussed.