ASD intervention research in real world contexts: Refining single case designs

• There is a pressing need for ASD intervention research in real world contexts.
• Contemporary single case designs are scientifically robust and ecologically valid.
• Single case designs can mobilize clinician researchers to build practice-based evidence.
• These designs are low cost and have the potential to strengthen evidence-based practice.

There is a pressing need for intervention research that reflects real world practice to support evidence-based decision making for families, professionals and administrators who support children with ASD. Some of the challenges confronting intervention research are explored, with solutions offered based on single case design methodology. Challenges with single case designs are also outlined and contemporary solutions that are applicable in real world contexts are illustrated in a study by the authors. Research utilizing these strategies may assist with facilitating practitioners to engage in practice-based research to bridge the research to practice gap in intervention with young children with ASD.