Principal Investigator(s):
Jinjun, Xiong, Ph.D.
Grant Type:
Applied Research
Funding:
50,000
Organization:
University of Buffalo
Year Awarded:
2025
Status:
In Progress
Location:
Buffalo, NY
Topics:
Early Intervention; Education and School Aged Children
Abstract
This project aims to rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of the Parent’s AI Coach.AI (PAC.AI), an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven digital tool developed at the PI’s lab, designed to support parent-implemented communication interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PAC.AI integrates naturalistic communication teaching (NCT) strategies (such as modeling, mand-model and time delay) with AI-driven feedback and reflection prompts. By analyzing parent-child interaction videos, PAC.AI delivers tailored guidance to enhance parent’s fidelity in implementing evidence-based communication strategies. The proposed study employs a mixed-methods research design. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 30 parent-child dyads will compare the outcomes of parents using PAC.AI with those receiving traditional expert-led coaching. Quantitative assessments will include parent implementation fidelity, child communication outcomes, and parent self-efficacy. Qualitative interviews and usability surveys will explore parent experiences, barriers to implementation, and perceived utility of the AI tool. Data integration will inform refinement of PAC.AI’s design and coaching features. If effective, PAC.AI could redefine parent coaching by offering a cost-effective, technology-assisted alternative that maintains fidelity and responsiveness.
