A systematic review of digital activity schedule use in individuals with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability.

Abstract

Background: This systematic review examined the effectiveness of digital activity schedules as an intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or intellectual disability.

Method: To be included, studies had to use a digitally presented activity schedule, excluding task analyses of single activities or group visual schedules, and the intervention must involve individuals with ASD or intellectual disability as the participants.

Results: Seventeen studies met the criteria, involving 58 participants, and focused on leisure, independent living, and academic skills across different age groups, with 82% reporting fidelity of implementation.

Conclusion: The review found that most interventions were concentrated in early childhood, primarily aimed at teaching leisure activities, and often combined with other concurrent interventions. The settings, participant ages, and interventions varied, with 41% meeting What Works Clearinghouse quality indicators. Future research should focus on interventions implemented in secondary education and independent living skills, with more rigorous methodological standards.