Studies comparing augmentative and alternative communication systems (AAC) applications for individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

In the present study, we aimed to make an evaluation, conduct comprehensive descriptive analyses, and calculate the effect sizes of studies which compare AAC applications designed according to single-subject research designs and conducted for individuals with ASD. Within the scope of this aim, 21 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were determined among the studies obtained by the systematic review. Firstly, the descriptive analysis of the included studies was conducted, and then they were evaluated in terms of the “Quality Indicators of Single-Subject Experimental Research Studies” and “acceptability” criteria suggested by Horner et al. (2005). The improvement rate difference effect sizes of 11 studies that were assessed as “acceptable” were calculated, and they were evaluated according to the design standards of the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC, 2017). The obtained findings were discussed in the light of the literature, and various suggestions were presented for future studies and practices. © Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities.