E-Coaching TSA
Impact of coaching via E-Learning for parents of young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Type of project: Exploratory research
Disabilities concerned: Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders
Topics: Communication, Education, Personal and Health Care
Status: Completed
Our team has developed a version of parent coaching in the form of E-Learning (E-Coaching), aimed at parents of young children with ASD (2 – 4.5 years).
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by difficulties in communication and social interaction, repetitive behaviours and sensory impairments. Current recommendations call for early screening and diagnosis of ASD, with the aim of promoting early intervention and parental support. Today, parents of children with ASD are seen as genuine partners in their child’s care. As a result, increasing attention is being paid to supporting and integrating parents into the overall care of children with ASD. Parent-mediated interventions are particularly well suited to young children.
However, access to this type of parent-mediated intervention is not yet available to a large number of families. The use of technologies such as videoconferencing is therefore becoming increasingly popular in the field of parent coaching. These techniques can offer feasible and promising alternatives for families living in underserved areas.
In this context, our team has developed a version of parent coaching in the form of E-learning (E-COACHING), aimed at parents of young children with ASD (aged 2-4.5). It consists of 11 modules, the content of which has been created using well-known and recognised strategies in the field of autism.
Designed to last 6-7 months, parents meet by videoconference with a professional once a month. Our team wants to evaluate the impact of this new tool via a research project.
The results we obtain will make a direct contribution to the care of young children with ASD and their parents. If the hypotheses are confirmed, E-COACHING will enable us to reach more families and have an earlier impact on the developmental trajectory of these children. Providing parents with concrete strategies for supporting their child will not only help the child to progress, but will also improve their quality of life, and that of their family.
