Sibling and adult video modelling to teach a student with autism: Imitation skills and intervention suitability

Purpose: To investigate the effectiveness of adult-as-model and sibling-as-model video modelling procedures for an individual with autism who demonstrated limited imitation skills. Methods: This study assessed the imitation ability of Matthew, a 15 year-old boy with autism, and then used video modelling, with his sibling and an adult as models, in order to teach him to match coins, respond to questions in a group discussion time and prepare a snack of noodles. Results: Matthew seldom responded to imitative opportunities in the assessment. Also, minimal changes in his ability to perform the target behaviours resulted from either of the video modelling conditions. Conclusion: An individual's imitation skills are an important pre-requisite for successful video modelling intervention.