Abstract: Autism is a complex developmental disability involving behavioral challenges and delays in communication, social interaction, and play. The disorder affects 1 in 68 individuals nationwide. The need for well trained professionals to work with individuals with this diagnosis is high, as ABA training models are not producing trained personnel at a rate that can meet the demand for services. Online instruction may provide a solution to this problem given the efficiency associated with this type of instruction. Studies in support of online instruction exist, however results are not conclusive and guidelines on how this training format is best utilized have not been identified. This paper will provide audience members with the following information; 1. An overview of the published research associated with ABA as well as other disciplines. In doing so, the need for a coordinated research effort will be highlighted. 2. A review of current concepts associated with online instruction that may guide future research efforts. 3. A large scale study involving the use of a between groups, repeated measures design and associated outcome data, will be presented as a starting-off point for further research, that may produce a set of guidelines involving the use of online instruction in ABA training models. |