PENERAPAN METODE PECS (PICTURE EXCHANGE COMMINICATION SYSTEM) DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN KOMUNIKASI RESEPTIF ANAK AUTIS

Abstract

This study aims to improve the receptive communication skills of a child with autism at
Phase A level at SKh PGRI Rangkasbitung through the use of the Picture Exchange
Communication System (PECS) method. This research employed an experimental
approach using Single Subject Research (SSR) with an A–B–A design. The subject of
this study was one SDKh student with autism. The target behavior in this study was the
child's ability to understand simple instructions and respond to commands through the
selection of appropriate picture cards. Data were collected through observation and
performance-based tests, while data analysis was conducted using descriptive
statistical analysis presented in graphical form. The results showed that the average
receptive communication ability of the subject in baseline 1 (A1) was 33%, indicating the
child's initial condition before the intervention. During the intervention phase (B), the
average receptive communication ability increased to 90% after the subject received
treatment using the PECS method. Furthermore, in baseline 2 (A2), the average
receptive communication ability was 53%, reflecting the subject's natural ability after the
intervention was withdrawn. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the
PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) method is effective in improving the
receptive communication skills of children with autism, particularly in understanding
instructions and responding to commands through picture card media among SDKh
level students at SKh PGRI Rangkasbitung.