What is it about?
Miniature Linguistic Systems (aka matrix training) is a method of organizing learning targets to achieve generative learning. This publication is a systematic review aimed at determining whether matrix training is effective for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) for improving generalization of learning for receptive and expressive language skills. Studies were rated and effect size metrics were calculated to determine how effective this approach is. We found that matrix training was effective and met criteria to be considered an evidence-based practice for individuals with ASD.
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Why is it important?
These findings are important because there are limited language EBPs for children with ASD. Generative learning is crucial to ongoing language development as well as learning in other life areas. This is often an area of need for kids with autism and there are very few clinical interventions. Clinically, it is important to identify feasible methods for clinicians to help autistic learners generalize what they have learned.
Perspectives
What I took away from these findings was that I can use this approach in my clinical practice as a way to organize learning targets. Because this approach was effective for targets that were directly taught and those that were not, using an MLS is good practice even when learning does not generalize. I also believe that MLS could easily be integrated into applications that focus on language development. This would make it very easy for clinicians to use the approach. Finally, even though many of the studies we reviewed were clinician/researcher lead, there is no reason why this approach cannot and should not be integrated into more naturalistic, play-based, child-lead therapy.
Paul Simeone
May Institute Inc
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Miniature Linguistic Systems for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, Journal of Speech Language and Hearing Research, May 2023, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA),
DOI: 10.1044/2023_jslhr-22-00353.
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