As a speech-language pathologist dedicated to creating impactful outcomes for children, I constantly seek evidence-based strategies to enhance communication skills. One recent study, "Using the Model, Lead, and Test Technique and GoTalk NOW App to Teach Children With Intellectual and Developmental Delays to Correctly Request," provides valuable insights into effective methods for teaching children with intellectual and developmental delays.
The study investigated the use of the Model, Lead, and Test (MLT) technique paired with the GoTalk NOW app on an iPad to help children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) make correct and independent requests. The research included four children aged 6 to 8 years with various intellectual and developmental delays. The findings were promising, showing significant improvements in the children's ability to request items correctly and independently.
Key Findings
- Effectiveness of MLT Technique: The MLT technique, which involves modeling the correct response, leading the child through the task, and then testing the child's ability to perform the task independently, proved effective in teaching the children to make requests.
- Utility of GoTalk NOW App: The GoTalk NOW app, an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tool, facilitated the learning process, allowing children to use visual and auditory cues to make requests.
- Improvement in Communication Skills: All four participants showed clear progress, indicating that combining the MLT technique with the GoTalk NOW app can be a practical, effective, and easy-to-use method for special education teachers.
Practical Implementation
For practitioners looking to implement these findings, consider the following steps:
- Familiarize Yourself with the GoTalk NOW App: Understanding the functionalities of the app is crucial. The app allows customization based on the child's preferences, which can make learning more engaging.
- Implement the MLT Technique:
- Model: Demonstrate the correct way to make a request using the app.
- Lead: Guide the child through the process, providing prompts as needed.
- Test: Ask the child to make a request independently. If they struggle, return to the modeling and leading steps.
- Monitor Progress: Use data-driven methods to track the child's progress. Record the number of correct and incorrect requests to identify areas needing further intervention.
- Engage with Parents and Educators: Collaborate with the child's support system to ensure consistency and reinforcement of the skills learned.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides a solid foundation, further research is necessary to generalize these findings across different settings and larger populations. Future studies could explore:
- The long-term retention of skills learned using the MLT technique and GoTalk NOW app.
- The effectiveness of this approach in different cultural contexts and with various age groups.
- The impact of incorporating other AAC tools and techniques.
Conclusion
The combination of the MLT technique and the GoTalk NOW app offers a promising approach to improving communication skills in children with intellectual and developmental delays. By adopting these evidence-based practices, practitioners can make a significant difference in the lives of these children, helping them achieve greater independence and social interaction.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Using the Model, Lead, and Test Technique and “GoTalk NOW” App to Teach Children With Intellectual and Developmental Delays to Correctly Request.
