NCT06310317

Applied Behavior Analysis With Technologies

Evaluating the Effect of Use of Technologies to Increase the Cognitive Abilities in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

• Status: Unknown
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 30 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Istituto per la Ricerca e l'Innovazione Biomedica · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 5 Years – 12 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapeutic approach for autism that is based on the principles of behavioral theory, learning, and positive reinforcement. Current research shows that early and intensive ABA intervention is effective in reducing dysfunctional behaviors and promoting learning and enactment of socially appropriate behaviors. In this context, new approaches that attempt to integrate advanced technologies can play a key role. This experimental protocol aims to test whether the use of advanced technologies, such as tablets, as part of an intervention for a group of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is more effective than the traditional approach implemented in a control group of children with ASD. The experimental protocol is aimed at enhancing cognitive skills, increasing new skills and acquiring functional/adaptive behaviors.

Conditions

• Autism
• Autism Spectrum Disorder

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Applied Behavior Analysis protocol	The main objective of the experimental protocol is to promote the development of cognitive skills, facilitate the acquisition of new skills and promote the adoption of functional and adaptive behaviors. The use of Applied Behavior Analysis procedures, with the help of technological tools such as a tablet or robot can facilitate the increase of new knowledge and skills. The criterion is acquired if the subject emits 8 out of 10 independent correct responses (90%) for 3 consecutive sessions. The objective is to test whether the technological tool used (tablet or robot) can make the proposed learning procedure more effective. The experimental group carries out the procedure by means of stimuli presented on tablets or robots.
BEHAVIORAL	Traditional intervention	The main objective of the experimental protocol is to promote the development of cognitive skills, facilitate the acquisition of new skills and promote the adoption of functional and adaptive behaviors. In this group the materials are traditional, such as image printed. The criterion is acquired if the subject emits 9 out of 10 independent correct responses (90%) for 3 consecutive sessions. The control group performs the procedure with images printed on A4 laminated sheets.

Timeline

• Start date: 2023-09-01
• Primary completion: 2025-01-31
• Completion: 2025-01-31
• First posted: 2024-03-15
• Last updated: 2024-03-15

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Italy