Date Approved

9-20-2016

Embargo Period

9-21-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. Special Education

Department

Interdisciplinary and Inclusive Education

College

College of Education

Advisor

Accardo, Amy

Committee Member 1

Kuder, Sydney J.

Keywords

Autism Spectrum Disorder, Communication Disorders, Initiation of Play, Pivotal Response Training, Social Interactions, Turn Taking

Subject(s)

Children with autism spectrum disorders; Preschool children; Social skills--Study and teaching

Disciplines

Special Education and Teaching

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to: (a) examine the effectiveness of using PRT as a peer-mediated strategy, (b) examine the effectiveness of using PRT to increase social interactions (play initiation and turn taking) for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and (c) evaluate typical peer satisfaction and perception of this intervention. Eight kindergarten students participated in this study, four students classified as having ASD or Communication Disorders, and four typical peers. A single subject multiple baseline across participants design was used, and maintenance data was collected. During the baseline, the frequency of taking turns and initiating play were observed and recorded for students with ASD and communication Disorders. During the intervention, typical peers acted as peer mediators in order to help the students increase skills. Results reveal that all students increased initiation and turn taking skills during intervention. Maintenance data shows that several participants maintained the skills post intervention. Moreover, typical peers showed satisfaction with study participation. Further research is suggested for investigating PRT with preschool children of varying functional levels.

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