Effects of dynamic text in an AAC app on sight word reading for individuals with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Transition to Literacy (T2L) software features (i.e., dynamic text and speech output upon selection of a graphic symbol) within a grid display in an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app, on the sight word reading skills of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and complex communication needs. The study implemented a single-subject multiple probe research design across one set of three participants. The same design was utilized with an additional set of two participants. As part of the intervention, the participants were exposed to an AAC app with the T2L features during a highly structured matching task. With only limited exposure to the features, the five participants all demonstrated increased accuracy of identification of 12 targeted sight words. This study provides preliminary evidence that redesigning AAC apps to include the provision of dynamic text combined with speech output, can positively impact the sight-word reading of participants during a structured task. This adaptation in AAC system design could be used to complement literacy instruction and to potentially infuse components of literacy learning into daily communication.

Keywords:

• Augmentative and alternative communication
• apps
• autism spectrum disorder
• literacy

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to offer their gratitude and thanks to the participants who contributed their time. Additionally, the authors would like to thank Saltillo for the realization of the T2L software features for evaluation and for the loan of the AAC equipment.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1 YouTube is a video sharing website. https://www.youtube.com/

2 Angry Birds was developed by Rovio Entertainment and was initially released as a game for Apple iOS – wherein colored birds with different features try and save their eggs. Its popularity led to many spin-off versions of the game for mobile technology, as well as an animated series and movie (The Angry Bird Movie, 2016). https://www.angrybirds.com/

3 NOVA Chat 12 is a voice output communication device available from Saltillo Corporation. https://saltillo.com/products/print/nova-chat-12

4 Samsung Galaxy 12 is an Android tablet computer, developed by Samsung Electronics. www.samsung.com

Additional information

Funding

The contents of this paper were developed under a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research [NIDILRR grant # 90RE5017]. NIDILRR is a Center within the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents of this paper do not necessarily represent the policy of NIDILRR, ACL, HHS, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. The doctoral student involved in the project was supported by the Penn State AAC Leadership Project, a doctoral training grant funded by U.S. Department of Education grant #H325D11008.