Autism Peer Networks Project: Improving Social-Communication, Literacy, andAdaptive Behaviors for Young Children with ASD
Project Description:
Recent census data indicate an alarming increase in the number of young children identified with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), with current estimates 1 in 110 children. Despite an impressive body of research in early intervention for children with Autism, limited attention within the ABA early intervention research has focused on programming and generalization of skills within the context of peer inclusive groups such as those found in school settings. Further, few ABA programs have addressed building social competence with typical peers combined with content area instruction (e.g., literacy) required for academic success in school settings (Mirenda, 2003; Strain & Hoyson, 2000).The purpose of this IES GOAL 3 efficacy investigation is to test effects of a Peer Network Intervention on social-communication, literacy, and adaptive behaviors for young children with ASD in school settings. Our project is based on the premise that social competence with peers, literacy, and adaptive behaviors in group settings are fundamental and pivotal skills that can be taught in schools. Further, beginning a peer intervention in the early grades (i.e., kindergarten and first grade) provides a strong foundation for future school success. Two sites are participating in the investigation: the University of Kansas (KU) and the University of Washington-Seattle (UW). Project objectives and progress during Year 1 are summarized.
Objective 1 is to conduct a multi-site randomized trial for students with ASD for the Peer Networks Intervention (Social/Literacy/Adaptive) (n = 60 experimental, 60 comparison).
Objective 2 is to investigate how child characteristics (e.g., learning status, autistic behaviors), and fidelity of intervention influence treatment outcomes.
Objective 3 is to measure generalization of communication and social interactions, and decreases in challenging in non-treatment settings for children in the Peer Network Intervention.
Expected benefits include improved social-communication, literacy, and adaptive behavior skills for participants in the Peer Networks Intervention.
Keyword(s):
autism, peer networks, educational strategies
Core Function(s):
Training Trainees, Performing Research or Evaluation
Area of Emphasis
Education & Early Intervention
Target Audience:
Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Professionals and Para-Professionals, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Geographic Areas, Empowerment Zone, Rural/Remote, Specific Groups
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
Another State, Mulit-County, State, Regional
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
