Technological Resources and Parental Engagement: behavioral strategies for carrying out stimulation activities with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Behavioral interventions have documented promising teaching outcomes for students with autism. Across the family's involvement in the intervention, it is possible to ensure the generalization learning. The general objective was to evaluate the parents' behavior as applicators of teaching activities (condition A), based on Behavior Analysis, as well as their children’s performance (condition B) in their homes and, the specific objective was to evaluate the use of digital resources as mediators of behavioral intervention. Three families were selected (F1, F2, F3) who applied the activities with manual and computerized records. Computerized recording was performed using the ESPIM (Experience Sampling and Programmed Intervention Method) system, which allows remote interventions to be carried out in natural environments. Parents showed different levels of engagement, Family 1 applied tasks 164 times during 21 days, Family 2 applied 100 times and Family 3 applied 175 times. The children's performances were also diversified: Family 1 child had 89 hits out of 164 opportunities; Family 2 had 49 out of 100 and Family 3 had 142 correct responses out of 175. Families applied and registered more activities (n=387) in the manuscript compared to the computerized record (n=52). However, the three families preferred to use the ESPIM for registration. Parents reported about the possibility of carrying out activities at home, as long as they have the help of a professional.