The Autism Diagnosis Observation Schedule, commonly known as ADOS is a somewhat structured assessment tool given to those, ranging from preschool aged to adult, who could quite possibly have autism or be on the spectrum. This assessment is prearranged to test communication, social interactions, and play including the imaginative use of materials. The ADOS includes four modules, each designed for children and adults with different developmental and language levels. These levels range from nonverbal (module 1) to verbally fluent (module 4). Modules 1 and 2 require both the examiner and examinee to move about the room at some point during the test. Modules 3 and 4 involve more exchange of dialogue and can be administered at the table.
Modules 1 is focused on children or adults that are not capable of frequently using phrases in speech. These activities include “free play, response to name, response to joint attention, bubble play, anticipation of a routine with objects, responsive social smile, functional and symbolic imitation, a reenactment of a “birthday party”, and snack time” (Lord, Rutter, DiLavore, & Risi, (n.d.)).
Module 2 is designed for those who use phrases more
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Or, the examiner can observe the lack of behaviors that have been identified as important to the diagnosis of autism and other omnipresent developmental disorders across the developmental levels organized in these modules and chronological ages. The examiner first selects the module that is most appropriate for each particular child or adult based on his/her expressive language level, taking their chronological age in mind. Structured activities and materials including the novel interactions help provide “standardized contexts in which social, communicative and other behaviors relevant to pervasive developmental disorders are observed” (Lord et al.,