Pediatric Applied and Innovative Research (PAIR Lab)
Project Description:
Evaluating a short-term Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Intervention Model Using Alternative Communication (ACC) Technology with minimally verbal children - This initiative aims to pilot an innovative applied behavior
analysis (ABA) intervention using augmentative and
alternative communication (AAC) for minimally verbal
children aged 2-8 on the autism spectrum or with related
disabilities. The University of Miami's Pediatric Applied and
Innovative Research (PAIR) program will implement this
intervention, which teaches children to request items using a
speech-generating device (SGD) over a 12-week period. The
PAIR program, the only resource of its kind in Miami-Dade
County, offers no-cost services to families while providing
immersive training for ABA professionals.
This project will (a) refine a specialized service for minimally
verbal children, (b) train early-career ABA professionals, and
(c) disseminate the intervention model to community
providers. The program addresses the significant
communication challenges faced by children with autism by
increasing access to evidence-based AAC interventions,
particularly for families without resources or current ABA
services. The innovation grant will support the development
of this model, train 8 professionals, and create resources for
broader community application, ultimately enhancing the
capacity to serve this underserved population in Miami-Dade
County.
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information
Area of Emphasis
Health-Related Activities
Target Audience:
Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Community Trainees / Short term trainees, Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN, Legislators/Policy Makers, General Public
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Empowerment Zone, Renewal Community, Reservation, Rural/Remote, Urban, Territory
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
Single-County
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
