Teaching children with autism spectrum disorders to check the spelling of words

This study aimed to teach two students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to check the spelling of words using the spell-check function on common word processor programs. A multiple-baseline across participants design with baseline, video modeling, and follow-up phases was implemented. During baseline, the participants performed less than 40% of the task-analyzed steps correctly. When the video modeling intervention was introduced via an iPad®, both participants reached the 76–100% correct level on the task analysis and became more successful in using the word processor programs to check the spelling of words. Follow-up data showed 100% correct performance by both participants. The results suggest that the video modeling intervention, delivered via an iPad®, was effective in teaching two adolescents with ASD to check the spelling of words using common word processing programs.

► Students with autism spectrum disorders learned how to check the spelling of words. ► Video modeling was successful without additional strategies. ► Students independently used the spell-check function on word processors. ► Acquired skills were maintained at follow-up.