Journal Article

Evaluation of the Integrated Therapy Model in Preschool Education for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in China

Cui, Jialiang, He, Xin, Xie, Han

2023

Overview

The Integrated Therapy Model is a practice framework designed to promote multi-disciplinary collaboration to accommodate the holistic needs of children with special education needs. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the model adopted in a pilot preschool in China on children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A single-case, ABAB reversal design was employed with three children with ASD, and data were collected using direct observation and semi-structured interviews. The results demonstrated that while the model piloted in China was effective at improving fine motor ability, gross motor ability, imitation and problem behavior, it had mild to questionable effects on self-care and independent living capacity. The implications for the practice and for research on preschool interventions in mainland China is discussed.

• Publisher: Springer Nature B.V
• Subject: Agency Cooperation / Autism / Autism Spectrum Disorders / Autistic children / Behavior problems / Child Development / Childhood Needs / Children / Children with disabilities / Classrooms / Collaboration / Cultural Background / Disability / Early childhood education / Early intervention / Educational Facilities Improvement / Holistic Evaluation / Imitation / Independent living / Individualized Education Programs / Individualized Family Service Plans / Individualized Programs / Integrated Services / Interpersonal Competence / Interviews / Kindergarten / Learning / Medical treatment / Motor ability / Occupational Therapy / Parents / Periodicals / Preschool children / Preschool education / Professionals / Professions / Psychomotor Skills / Rehabilitation / Self care / Special education / Special needs children / Special Needs Students / Speech therapists / Teaching / Therapy / Training