article critique: part 2

1. The dependent variable of this study was to increase physical activity skills in people with ASD. This was defined by the percentage of steps of each exercise performed correctly (Bassette, Kulwicki, Dieringer, Zoder-Martell & Heneisen, 2018). The components were described in the section labeled “Design, Variables, and Data Collection.” Also in the beginning of the article, the researchers explain the benefits of physical activity and that people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) lack those skills to perform physical activity individually.

Bassette, L., Kulwicki, J., Dieringer, S. T., Zoder-Martell, K. A., & Heneisen, R. (2018). The Use of a Multicomponent Behavioral Intervention to Promote Physical Activity in Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders across Inclusive Community Settings. Behavior Analysis in Practice,11(4), 358-369. doi:10.1007/s40617-018-00285-7

2. Independent variables: The independent variable of this study is the multicomponent treatment package (Bassette, Kulwicki, Dieringer, Zoder-Martell & Heneisen, 2018). The multicomponent treatment package includes: system of least prompts, increase of criteria, the reinforcement provided, and the application used called the Exercise Buddy. This variable is clearly defined in a section labeled “Design, Variables, and Data Collection” as well as in the materials section of the study. The researchers explained what the Exercise Buddy app is, the exact order of prompts, the exercises were explained as well and accompanied with a table showing what participant would do what exercise.

3. Based on the information provided the study can be replicated. The authors clearly stated the research questions and the purpose of the study in the beginning of the article. People with ASD were assigned certain exercises to complete as independently as they could. Prompts were provided if needed, along with reinforcement. The procedures, methods, settings and materials were described in exceptional detail. The dependent and independent variables were identified by the section title “Design, Variables, and Data Collection. One area that could be improved is within the results section. One participant has graphs

showing her results, but the other two participants don’t. Although the results are clearly explained for all three participants, visuals for all three could help to see the numbers. Overall, a replication of this study could be done due to the exceptionally described procedures, methods, setting and variables within the article.