Seeing is Believing: Video Self-modeling for People with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities

Video self-modeling (VSM) is a proven and effective method for teaching new or more advanced skills and behaviors to people with autism. The technique uses homemade videos (created by parents, teachers, or therapists) to demonstrate a desired behavior. The key feature of any self-modeling video is that the person modeling the behavior in the video is the same person watching the video. VSM allows a person with autism to see himself performing the very skill he is trying to learn. This is accomplished through careful editing and manipulation of video footage, transforming it into a cohesive teaching tool. And the process is a lot easier than you may think!

Seeing Is Believing begins with an overview of the research and science behind VSM and insights into why it is a particularly good teaching method for people with autism and other developmental disabilities. It then explains the process of making self-modeling videos from start to finish, including how to:

choose the behavior/skill to teach

conduct a task analysis

select and use camcorders and video software

storyboard video scenes

plan and shoot footage

transfer the video to a VCR, DVD, or computer

edit and manipulate the footage

keep track of and interpret data

These videos can teach or modify a wide variety of behaviors and skills, such as controlling tantrums, increasing the frequency and length of verbal responses, making requests, interacting with peers, and solving math problems. Seeing Is Believing is a good companion book to Functional Behavior Assessment for People with Autism and Stop That Seemingly Senseless Behavior!

For further information on VSM, go to siskinvsm.org. Here youwill find a blog that provides additional advice and consultation via email on VSM methods, sample videos, FAQs, and a discussion forum with professionals in the field. siskinvsm.org will become operational in March 2009.