Promoting Workplace Independence in Individuals With Autism Using Video Modeling

This study examined the effectiveness of video modeling for teaching office-cleaning skills to individuals with autism. The targeted skills included (a) preparing the office for cleaning, (b) dusting and wiping office materials, and (c) mopping the office floor. A multiple-baseline design across participants was used to evaluate changes in independent task performance across baseline, intervention, and follow-up phases. Instruction was delivered via systematically developed video models demonstrating each step of the cleaning routines. Performance data were collected using task analyses and were analyzed by visual inspection and effect-size calculations. In addition, acquisition of non-targeted information related to the target skills was assessed. The findings showed that video modeling led to marked improvements in participants’ independent, accurate completion of office cleaning tasks. Furthermore, the acquired skills were maintained over time and generalized across different office settings and materials. Social validity data indicated positive perceptions among both participants and their parents. Overall, the results support video modeling as an effective, evidence based instructional practice for enhancing workplace independence and functional daily living skills among individuals with autism.