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Video Modeling - One of the most evidence-based treatments for children with special needs

Abstract

Over the past three decades, research has demonstrated that video modeling is an invaluable, evidencebased tool for teaching a variety of skills to children with Down syndrome, autism or other language delays. More importantly, scores of studies have shown that once a skill is learned through video modeling, it is maintained over time and generalized across settings.

A summary of general research and GemIIni-based research

30+ years of academic research and institutional acceptance

Over the past three decades, research has demonstrated that video modeling is an invaluable, evidence based tool for teaching a variety of skills to children with Down syndrome, autism or other language delays. More importantly, scores of studies have shown that once a skill is learned through video modeling, it is maintained over time and generalized across settings.

In a rigorous review of autism interventions in the National Standards Report, video modeling was considered an “Established” and “Effective” treatment by the National Autism Center.

Video modeling has been proven to effectively teach skills as varied as social, academic, communication, daily living, play, perspective taking and the generalization of information. This presentation will present a sampling of the hundreds of studies on video modeling as the research base GemIIni relies upon for its own research. The findings of researchers in GemIIni-based clinical trials have moved the field forward from this well-established base. Clinical trials showing the power of viewing GemIIni in groups and in the use of sensory-management filming techniques to increases retention of information could be significant breakthroughs.

Better Outcomes with Lower Costs

While the need for robust, personalized therapy sessions is unquestioned, researchers have known for years that video modeling can be more effective than live one-to-one therapy for modeling. Many of the following studies explicitly point to the cost savings, efficiency and better outcomes that are all a result of the use of video modeling in schools, clinics or homes. From a practical viewpoint, it goes without saying that a the use of video for teaching some skills would be both a more efficient and a more cost effective use of time, so that “live” therapy sessions can be focused on generalization and socialization of learned concepts instead of rote teaching with flashcards or other techniques.

In one such example, a seven year study performed in a school district with over 70,000 students, researchers found that video modeling achieved significant improvements in many academic skills for children with special needs, while improving parent teacher cooperation (Biedernan & Freeman 2007).

Gemiini Harnessed the Power of Video Modeling for Easy Use & Improved Results

Gemiini is a tool that puts video modeling’s highly researched and evidence-based approach at the fingertips of clinicians across the globe, enabling them to make customized video modeling sessions in a matter of minutes. Research showing the effectiveness of Gemiini over standard video modeling is included in the following pages.