Study on Semantic Features Training Effectiveness on Word Definition Skill in High-Function Autistic Children

Definition of a term is a function through which you can obtain main features of each word or the same basic information in relation to each word. One of the main problems of autistic children is a defect in language semantics. They have poor memory performance in storing vocabulary information. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic curriculum based on semantic terms training semantic on improving word definitions skills of four high-function autistic children. The present study was quasi-experimental research in the form of a single ABA study. After studying literature and interviews with experts, a treatment program designed to needs of autistic children. After determining content validity, its effect on word definitions skill of high-function autistic children investigated. This research was among quasi-experimental case studies with ABA design. Four high-function autistic children were selected using non-randomized and straightforward convenience sampling method to participate in a 13-session therapeutic program based on semantic features. Speech and language pathologists approved the designed program, with content validity of CVR≥0.75. Then, the results of the program were evaluated using chart drawing, ocular analysis, Di Cohen effect size calculation, and recovery rate. Effect size in all four children was more than 0.8, and following a treatment program, all patients showed high rates of clinical recovery. The children obtained higher scores on the content aspect of word definition than on structural aspect. In term of content, responses to a functional, objective, particular category and second type combination and in time of structural aspect, phrase/quasi-sentence or simple sentence, vague and specific complex category responses showed the most frequencies. The planned treatment program has sufficient content validity and can be implemented in all speech therapy centers. Regarding the studies on the effect of the designed treatment plan on the content of word definition in four autistic children with high-performance and their increased scores, it can be concluded that the planned treatment program has the potential to improve their ability since the treatment results were relatively stable follow-up stage. Also, increasing rates of higher-level responses may be regarded as another witness to the changes in their word definition skill, following the treatment program. It should be acknowledged that, by receiving a treatment program, these children would be able to improve their word definition skill, in a relatively short period. By comparing the results in these four children, motivation, linguistic level, family involvement in the repetition of exercises or implementation of other rehabilitation treatments in children can be mentioned as factors contributing to their improvement. Another point to note is that, in most cases, during the final treatment sessions, the gradient of change graph of the children has not been stabled yet. Until the end session, there has been an increase in scores and improvements in skills. From this observation, it can be concluded that the treatment protocol has the potential to increase the number of training sessions to enhance the children skills further.