Confronto tra PECS e iPad come strumenti di comunicazione per studenti con Disturbo dello Spettro Autistico e ritardo dello sviluppo

Comparing the picture exchange communication system and the iPad for communication of students with autism spectrum disorder and developmental delay

Hill DA, Flores MM.
Tech Trends, 58(3), 45–53. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11528-014-0751-8.
Abstract
Both picture exchange, a low-tech picturebased communication system, and technologybased interventions, such as the iPad™ with communication application, are emerging treatments for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to the National Autism Center (2009). Recently, investigations regarding the use of the Apple iPad™ to communicate have been conducted with mixed results. The authors used a single-subject alternating treatment design during an extended school year (ESY) program for students with disabilities to compare the independent use and effectiveness of the two approaches (low-tech picture-based versus iPad™ equivalent) for three pre-school and two elementary students with ASD and developmental delay (DD). The authors concluded that teaching low-tech picture exchange prior to introducing the iPad™ may be effective progression in teaching communication reciprocity skills for some students with ASD/DD. Limitations and strengths of both technologies are discussed.