Evidence-Based Prompting Techniques & Teaching Practices 

Module Aims

The aim of this project is to address the crucial need for evidence-based information and accessible resources in supporting individuals with complex communication needs, particularly those utilizing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. 


This aim will be achieved by the following objectives:


This module provides a valuable resource for educators working with individuals with complex communication needs, particularly those using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. Prompting, as a teaching procedure grounded in behaviour analytic principles, plays a crucial role in facilitating learning. It allows educators to scaffold students' communication skills effectively, ensuring that learners receive the right level of support tailored to their individual needs. By employing various prompting techniques, such as most-to-least and least-to-most prompting, educators can foster independence while simultaneously reinforcing communication abilities. This approach not only aids in skill acquisition but also contributes to a more inclusive classroom environment where all students can thrive.

Topic Areas

Prompting Strategies 

Prompting involves giving learners’ verbal, gestural, or physical help to support them in learning or performing a specific skill or behaviour. This assistance, which can come from an adult or a peer, is usually given just before or while the learner, is trying to use the skill (Steinbrenner et al., 2020).

Teaching Strategies 

Systematic Instruction can help a learner acquire the use of an AAC system. These approaches can be individualised to meet the needs of the learner (Alzrayer et al., 2019).

Summary

In considering the evidence-based practices utilized across the reviewed studies, it's imperative to acknowledge the evolving nature of research and the potential for refinements in instructional approaches based on ongoing literature review. The studies explored a spectrum of evidence-based strategies, including methods such as differential reinforcement, prompting (both least-to-most and most-to-least), and time delay interventions, among others. These practices have demonstrated efficacy in facilitating skill acquisition and communication abilities in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities (Ganz, 2015; Steinbrenner et al., 2020). However, as research continues to unfold, there may be advancements or adaptations in teaching and prompting strategies based on emerging evidence and refined methodologies (Light et al., 2019a, 2019b). Therefore, while the current evidence supports the utilization of these practices, it remains subject to potential updates or modifications informed by empirical findings and the synthesis of the literature. Continued research efforts are indispensable in ensuring that interventions remain aligned with the latest evidence and best practices to optimize outcomes for individuals with complex communication needs.

References

Alzrayer, N. M., Banda, D. R., & Koul, R. K. (2019). The effects of systematic instruction in teaching multistep social-communication skills to children with autism spectrum disorder using an iPad. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 22(6), 415-429. doi.org/10.1080/17518423.2019.1604578 

Ganz, J. B. (2015). AAC interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorders: State of the sci ence and future research directions. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 31, 203–214. https://doi.org/10.3109/07434618.2015.1047532

Light, J., McNaughton, D., Beukelman, D., Fager, S. K., Fried-Oken, M., Jakobs, T., & Jakobs, E. (2019). Challenges and opportunities in augmentative and alternative communication: Research and technology development to enhance communication and participation for individuals with complex communication needs. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 35(1), 1–12.  doi.org/10.1080/07434618.2018.1556732 

Light, J., Wilkinson, K. M., Thiessen, A., Beukelman, D. R., & Fager, S. K. (2019). Designing efective AAC displays for individuals with developmental or acquired disabilities: State of the science and future research directions. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 35(1), 42–55. doi.org/10.1080/07434 618.2018.1558283

Steinbrenner, J. R., Hume, K., Odom, S. L., Morin, K. L., Nowell, S. W., Tomaszewski, B., Szendrey, S., McIntyre, N. S., YücesoyÖzkan, S., & Savage, M. N. (2020). Evidence-Based Practices for Children, Youth, and Young Adults with Autism. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice Review Team

Module developed by: Angela Rai as part of her masters project at Victoria University of Wellington.

(Published October 4, 2024)