Assessing the basic language and learning skills of children with normal development and autism

The aim of this research is to determine the functional applicability of the language assessment tool titled "Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS-R)" which is used in the assessment of language skills of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders or other developmental disorders. The participants of the research group consisted of 30 children diagnosed with autism and the ones of the control group consisted of 30 children exhibiting normal developmental pattern. The age range of the participants was between 4 and 10 for children with autism, whereas the age range for children showing normal development was between 4 and 6. In this study, the research design is set as descriptive comparison model. Results revealed statistically significant differences between children with autism and normal development in terms of the scores obtained from ABLLS except reading skills. While a large proportion of children exhibiting normal development achieved full scores from the assessment, a large portion of children with autism spectrum diagnosis received minimal level scores. The findings of the study suggest that ABLLS-R can be used safely and effectively to assess and follow the language and learning skills of children with autism.