| Abstract: This study evaluated the effect of a multi-phase augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention package using modeling, prompting, and reinforcement on prelinguistic and linguistic partner-directed play communicative behaviors, in three preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), using a speech-generating device (SGD). Using a multiple probe across participants design, the researchers modeled and prompted holding up a toy (prelinguistic play communication), activating the SGD button “Look” (linguistic play communication), and engaging in partner-directed gaze with the interventionist. All three participants demonstrated some increase in prelinguistic communication and partner-directed gaze, although only one met and maintained full mastery criteria for all three target behaviors. Results are discussed in terms of their contribution to AAC research involving prelinguistic and linguistic communication, and in terms of participant differences, such as prior SGD experience, size of imitation repertoire, and response to social praise, that may help account for variance in acquisition. Future directions are also discussed, including the need for further research on incorporating prelinguistic targets into SGD intervention. |