Accuracy of letter reproduction using video modeling versus in vivo modeling in children with autism

This study was designed to explore which modeling approach, in vivo or video would develop accuracy on letter imitation in children with autism. A multiple baseline AB design across participants was used. The independent variable was video modeling utilizing the Alphamation handwriting video. Accuracy of letter imitation of the different participants was the dependent variable. Each participant was asked to copy a letter that was randomly selected from a pool of unlearned letters. In vivo modeling as the traditional and generalized approach for teaching handwriting skills served as baseline. The three participants were randomly assigned to 3, 5, or 7 baseline sessions. Results suggested no advantages to video modeling. There were variable trends associated with the introduction of video modeling within participant or across participants on the accuracy of letter imitation. The celeretion line test indicated no statistical significance change at the .5 level on the accuracy of letter imitation in children with autism with the introduction of the video.