Back in 2008 or 2009, I went to a training on video modeling.
Since then it has become much more popular. Video modeling is when you videotape yourself, a peer, or the person with Autism doing the exact task you want them to teach. That person will then watch the video to lean the skill.
There are a few reasons why it is effective:
1- Many on the Autism spectrum enjoy watching things on the screen and have an easier time watching it than attending to things in their environment.
2- Videos can be replayed over and over again.
There are 4 types of video modeling:
Basic- You have a person perform the skill you are teaching on camera.
Self-Modeling– The person who is learning the skill is recorded doing that exact behavior on video. Editing the video is an option so it can be one cohesive production in case of difficulties with the fluidity of the skill in real time, or have the person imitate you or someone else off camera doing that skill.
Prompting- This can be effective in teaching daily life skills such as dressing, grooming, and chores. This is when every step is broken down on video with usually a pause or break in between each step. This is one of the most effective types because it breaks down steps in smaller bites.
Point of View- This is when the camera lens is positioned as if the person is completing the task from her or his point of view. You would put the camera on a person’s head as they complete a task. Here is an example: HERE
Do you think this is something you could incorporate in your home? Share this with other families who you think would benefit from this. Let me know if you have any questions.
