A Review of Video Modelling and Scripts in Teaching Conversational Skills to Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have difficulties acquiring social skills without direct intervention. This article provides a review of research on the use of video modelling and scripts to improve the verbal conversational skills of individuals with ASD. The studies reviewed included participants with a diagnosis of ASD and reported empirical data on some aspect of verbal conversation. Percentage of non-overlapping data and percentage exceeding the mean metrics were calculated for each study and compared. Maintenance and generalisation data were also extracted. The results suggest that scripted interventions may be as effective as video modelling interventions and audio scripts may be more effective than visual scripts. Most studies focussed on relatively simple aspects of conversation such as initiating or responding. Nevertheless, the body of research is limited and further studies are needed to clarify these findings. Recommendations for future research and the limitations of this review are discussed.