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This study assessed the effectiveness of modified schema-based instruction (MSBI) in teaching students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) how to solve additive compare word problems. The study was conducted in Spain, and it involved three students with ASD who were 6, 7, and 9 years of age. A single-case, multiple-baseline across-students design was followed. Results indicated a functional relation between MSBI and improved performance in solving additive compare problems of type difference amount unknown and compare amount unknown, maintained for 4 to 6 weeks post-intervention. Additionally, two students successfully applied their skills to reference-amount-unknown compare problems, demonstrating successful generalization. However, their generalization to problems involving two operations was somewhat limited by difficulties with one of the operations. Social validity data collected from the students' families and teachers indicated that both groups had positive views on the use of the MSBI for mathematical word problem-solving skills.

This study examines relationships between mathematical problem-solving performance (in terms of strategies used and accuracy) and the main cognitive domains associated with mathematical learning (i.e. executive functions, verbal comprehension and social perception) of children with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD and non-ASD resp.). The study involved 26 ASD and 26 non-ASD children without intellectual disabilities, between 6 and 12 years old, matched by sex, age and school (grade and classroom). The results show a higher percentage of ASD children with problem solving difficulties than non-ASD (57% vs. 23% resp.). Poor performing ASD children showed comparatively lower scores in inhibition, theory of mind and verbal comprehension. Implications for the design of mathematical interventions for ASD students are discussed.