Graduation Date
Summer 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Master of Science degree with a major in Kinesiology
Committee Chair Name
Dr. David Adams
Committee Chair Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Second Committee Member Name
Dr. Chris Hopper
Second Committee Member Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Third Committee Member Name
Dr. Jill Anderson
Third Committee Member Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Keywords
autism, ASD, special education, antecedent-based interventions, ABIs, special interest materials, special interest area, on-task behavior, adapted physical education, APE, single-subject design, withdrawal design, behavior intervention, motivation, engagement
Subject Categories
Kinesiology
Abstract
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are affected in the areas of social skills, communication, and restrictive and repetitive behaviors that can lead to barriers in accessing physical education (PE). School-based PE helps children learn how to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to live physically active lifestyles. The purpose of this current study is to implement an antecedent based intervention using special interest materials to increase on task and engagement in learners with ASD in PE activities. The intervention showed modest to minimal improvements in on-task behavior and performance for two of the three participants, with high variability and limited evidence of functional control. Future studies should thoroughly assess students’ baseline motor abilities and attitudes toward physical education to better understand the role of Special Interest Materials in improving both engagement and performance in APE settings.
Citation Style
APA
Recommended Citation
Smith, Gary, "Facilitating on-task behavior in physical education for learners with ASD through special interest modified materials: antecedent-based intervention" (2025). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 2330.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/2330
Included in
Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Health and Physical Education Commons, Other Education Commons, Other Kinesiology Commons, Secondary Education Commons, Special Education and Teaching Commons