Comparing Different Delivery Modes for Literacy-Based Behavioral Interventions during Employment Training for College Students with Developmental Disabilities

Recent research has shown the effectiveness of literacy-based behavioral interventions (LBBIs) as an instructional strategy for a host of skills and routines, including employment skills. This study compared the effects of three LBBI storybook formats (print, e-book, and e-book enhanced with video clips) on the accuracy and independent completion of new employment skills in college students with developmental disabilities. Comparisons of LBBI formats were made across office tasks including filing papers and reports, using an office copier, and answering a telephone and taking a message. All three LBBI formats were effective in increasing acquisition and maintenance of students' employment skills. When the formats were compared directly, the enhanced e-book was most effective, followed by the e-book and paper book delivery modes. However, this comparison differed somewhat across specific indicators used to establish differential effectiveness, suggesting that tasks and students also influence the effectiveness of the LBBI formats.