Abstract
Since its introduction to the field, a growing body of research on the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) has demonstrated
its efficacy for children with autism in research settings. However, knowledge of PECS generalization remains limited and
mixed. The present study explored a train and probe technique of assessing generalization after each phase of PECS training.
Four children with autism were taught PECS in treatment rooms with a therapist at their behavioral treatment program. Generalization
was assessed in a playroom with a therapist, at home with a therapist and parent, and in the community with a stranger. Results
indicated that all four participants generalized PECS use across settings and people and maintained PECS use at follow-up.
Findings provide support for the utility of a train and probe technique to assess generalization when using PECS with children
with autism.
its efficacy for children with autism in research settings. However, knowledge of PECS generalization remains limited and
mixed. The present study explored a train and probe technique of assessing generalization after each phase of PECS training.
Four children with autism were taught PECS in treatment rooms with a therapist at their behavioral treatment program. Generalization
was assessed in a playroom with a therapist, at home with a therapist and parent, and in the community with a stranger. Results
indicated that all four participants generalized PECS use across settings and people and maintained PECS use at follow-up.
Findings provide support for the utility of a train and probe technique to assess generalization when using PECS with children
with autism.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- Pages 1-20
- DOI 10.1007/s10882-012-9288-y
- Authors
- Alissa L. Greenberg, School of Behavioral and Organizational Sciences, Claremont Graduate University, 150 E. 10th St, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
- Melaura Andree Erickson Tomaino, School of Behavioral and Organizational Sciences, Claremont Graduate University, 150 E. 10th St, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
- Marjorie H. Charlop, Department of Psychology, Claremont McKenna College, 850 Columbia Ave, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
- Journal Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities
- Online ISSN 1573-3580
- Print ISSN 1056-263X