Comparison of Technology-Based Presentation Modalities in Multi-Stimulus Job Task Preference Assessments

This study evaluated the effectiveness of video and electronic pictorial presentation modalities in multiple stimulus without replacement (MSWO) job task preference assessments through methods comparison and evaluation of predictive validity. The study was conducted in the school setting with eight transition-age students with ASD and ID. Variations of work task preference assessment, electronic picture-based and video-based MSWO, were compared to an established assessment method, tangible stimulus MSWO. Subsequently, the predictive validity of the assessments was evaluated by observing the task engagement of participants while performing the high- and low-preference work tasks. Results suggest that electronic pictorial and video MSWO assessments of preferences are accurate and effective with some individuals and not as effective as the object modality for others. Findings, limitations, and implications for research and practice are also discussed.