Self-operated auditory prompting systems for individuals with intellectual disability: A meta-analysis of single-subject research

Background Self-operated auditory prompting systems deliver auditory prompts through technology to support users with task completion and behaviour management. A meta-analysis of single-subject research was conducted, assessing the quality of studies and examining the use of this intervention for individuals with intellectual disability. Method An assessment of study quality was conducted on studies meeting inclusion criteria using the What Works Clearinghouse guidelines. Treatment effectiveness of studies that met standards or met standards with reservation was calculated using percentage of nonoverlapping data (PND). Variables of interest such as participant demographics and intervention characteristics (e.g., voice used in recording, setting of intervention) were explored. Results Overall, self-operated auditory prompting interventions were highly effective (PND = 93.6%). This intervention was effective or highly effective across all participant and intervention characteristics. Conclusion The findings of this review support the conclusion that self-operated auditory prompting systems are an evidence-based strategy for individuals with intellectual disability.