Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact that technology can have on learning for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, technology has become a key factor and need for implementing learning for all children. Some students with Autism need to utilize some sort of technological or AAC device for their every day learning and living. The overarching research question of the study is to explore how different technological devices affect students with ASD and their learning. Outside research has proven that technology can have a beneficial impact on students learning, specifically ones with ASD. “According to the U.S Census, in 2015 78% of households with a child that had Autism held a computer, and 75% had either a smartphone or handheld wireless device. Technology has grown as part of everyday life for many families with ASD (autism spectrum news.org, 2020). This study was performed as a case, qualitative study, completed through the use of interviews. Three individuals were questioned and interviewed based on a set of basic questions regarding four different themes: How students utilize technology, impacts of technology, remote learning, and technology as reinforcement. Participant A is a clinical director and BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst), working at a private school in Middlesex County, MA focused on students with ASD. Participant B is a mother of a student (Student J) that attends the private school. Lastly, Participant C is a BCBA that works with this Student J and at the private school mentioned earlier. The data collected was based off of the participants answers to the interviews questions and past experiences/observations from previous internship placements. The findings of the study suggest that there is a positive impact of technology and different technological devices on learning for students with ASD. The data concludes that iPads are one of the main AAC and learning devices that can be utilized by students with ASD. The researcher also discovered that remote learning can hurt students academically while technological reinforcers can aid in students' academic performances.