Prefer PECS or speech-generating devices when selecting aided AAC approaches for individuals with ASD¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · 3 claims (3 for) · 2 studies (1 quant-synthesis, 1 review), q2–q3 · 0 of 2 report an effect size · 3 claims rest on one study

Description¶

Based on the meta-analytic comparison of AAC intervention types, this strategy favors selecting the Picture Exchange Communication System or speech-generating devices over other picture-based systems for individuals with ASD. The article reports that "Effects of the Picture Exchange Communication System and speech-generating devices were larger than those for other picture-based systems," though other picture-based systems "did have small effects," so they remain an option rather than being contraindicated.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Requires aided AAC options under consideration, including PECS, speech-generating devices, and other picture-based systems.

Constraints¶

• The evidence base is single-case research with small numbers of participants; other picture-based systems still showed small positive effects.

Target Learners¶

• individuals with autism spectrum disorders who cannot speak or cannot speak intelligibly

Target Learning Goals¶

• communication and other targeted behavioral outcomes

Claims¶

• PECS and speech-generating devices produced larger effects than other picture-based AAC systems, which nonetheless showed small effects [+W]
• Individuals with developmental disabilities tend to prefer speech-generating devices over picture exchange and manual signs, with substantial individual differences [+W]
• Aided AAC interventions had large effects on targeted behavioral outcomes in individuals with ASD, per a meta-analysis of 24 single-case studies [+W]

Related Strategies¶

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Ganz, J. B., Earles-Vollrath, T. L., Heath, A. K., Parker, R. I., Rispoli, M. J., & Duran, J. B. (2012). A Meta-Analysis of Single Case Research Studies on Aided Augmentative and Alternative Communication Systems with Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 42, 60–74. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-011-1212-2