title: Generalization of a pictorial alternative communication system across instructors and distance.
abstract: Nonverbal individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often require the use of picture-based, aided augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. Such systems are used widely, but little research has investigated the generalization of these devices to a variety of communicative partners and under a variety of conditions. We investigated use of a modified Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) protocol to teach AAC-supported functional communication skills to a 12-year-old boy with autism. Results indicate that the participant was able to generalize his communication skills across a variety of instructors and to use functional non-verbal strategies to respond to communication obstacles.
authors.affiliation: University of Texas, San Antonio 78249, USA. jennifer.ganz@utsa.edu
authors.forename: Jennifer B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Ganz
authors.forename: Jeff
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Sigafoos
authors.forename: Richard L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Simpson
authors.forename: Katherine E
authors.initials: KE
authors.lastname: Cook
mesh_terms: D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002648:Child; D002663:Child Language; D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities; D003147:Communication Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009633:Nonverbal Communication; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods