Examining the Effectiveness of the Parent Implemented Functional Communication Training through the Use of Zoom in Children with Developmental Disabilities at Home Setting in KSA

Studies showed that children with Developmental Disabilities (DD) have communication and social difficulties; consequently, they are more likely to display disruptive behaviors. During daily interactions, disruptive behaviors can pose difficulties for individuals such as siblings, peers, parents, and educators. In KSA, parental involvement in school-related activities is overall insufficient. Also, parents were dissatisfied with their children's progress in academic and life skills. Those factors evoked the importance of having parents implement evidence-based practice to increase their competence, knowledge, and independence. Furthermore, teaching children meaningful communication ways through FCT may benefit school readiness and the development of social relationships and overall daily living skills. This research used an effective approach to increase communication skills and decrease disruptive behaviors in students with DD. Functional Communication Training (FCT) involves learners using appropriate functional communicative forms that replace nonfunctional communicative forms. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effectiveness of parent implemented FCT intervention through the use of Zoom in children with DD in KSA. Three parents and their children diagnosed with DD participated in this research in their home settings using a single-subject design and multiple baselines across participants to determine the efficiency of FCT in enhancing functional communication skills and decreasing disruptive behaviors. The results of this research were significant in improving the functional alternative communicative forms and decreasing the disruptive behaviors in children with DD that aligned with previous studies. Also, parents showed high fidelity in implementing FCT procedures for their children, which was needed to promote long-term effects and sustainability. The FCT effectiveness of FCT was maintained over time and generalized. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]