Citation:
Savard, L. Tschaikowsky, E. Gell, N. (2024) Feasibility of a Motor Learning Study Protocol for Children on the Autism Spectrum. Poster presented at the Zeigler Research Forum, Burlington,VT. Selected for short oral presentation.
Many children on the autism spectrum have motor delays and difficulty learning new movements. Those with more support needs are often excluded from motor learning research.
We aimed to develop a feasible way to include children with autism and higher support needs (level 3) in future motor learning studies.
We modified a protocol from previous studies. Throwing a bean bag at a wall target was replaced by throwing at a “cornhole” board laced flat on the ground. Changes were made iteratively until the protocol was well tolerated. A descriptive analysis of reactions and prompts used was completed.
Modified Protocol:
Unobstructive data collection:
- Video data
- Wearable sensors
Supports:
- Video modeling
- Visual schedule
- Breaks with yoga ball
Additional changes:
- Standardized prompts
- Heavier bean bag for generalization task
All children completed all phases of the study.
Prompts beyond protocol:
Physical touch to arm, gestural prompt towards the target, verbal encouragements and feedback (Level 2 and 3).
Reactions:
Upset with target moved further (Level 2)
Instruction video not consistently watched (Level 3)
The protocol is feasible and allows measurement of motor learning in children with autism and higher support needs.
