Course Overview:

The Autism and Intervention in Classrooms course is designed to provide educators with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively support students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This comprehensive course covers understanding autism, individualized intervention strategies, and best practices for creating an inclusive classroom environment. Participants will learn how to identify the needs of students with autism, implement effective interventions, and monitor student progress, ensuring each student receives the support they need to succeed academically and personally.

Target Audience:

• Special Education Teachers: Professionals responsible for supporting students with autism.
• General Education Teachers: Teachers in inclusive classrooms who need to understand how to support students with autism.
• School Administrators: Principals, assistant principals, and other administrative staff who oversee special education programs.
• School Counselors: Counselors who support the educational and emotional needs of students with autism.
• Paraprofessionals: Classroom aides and assistants who support students with autism.
• Future Educators: Education students and interns preparing for a career in teaching, particularly those focusing on special education.
• Parents and Guardians: Those interested in understanding autism to better advocate for their children’s educational needs.

Prerequisites:

• Basic Understanding of Special Education: Foundational knowledge of special education concepts and terminology.
• Teaching Experience: Experience working in a classroom setting.
• Familiarity with Educational Assessments: Understanding of various educational assessments and their purposes.
• Knowledge of Legal Requirements: Awareness of the legal and regulatory framework governing special education.
• Collaborative Skills: Experience working collaboratively with other educators, parents, and support staff.
• Commitment to Professional Development: Willingness to engage in continuous learning and professional growth.

What's Included:

• 2-hour workshop mode training
• Experienced Consultant delivering the class
• Discussion on concepts & best practices to apply
• Q&A sessions and next steps

Module 1: Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Definition and Characteristics of ASD
  • Overview of autism spectrum disorder and its characteristics
  • Common misconceptions and myths
• Impact on Learning and Development
  • Academic performance
  • Social and emotional development
• Roles and Responsibilities
  • Educators, parents, and specialists

Module 2: Identifying and Assessing Needs

• Evaluation Process
  • Formal and informal assessments
  • Role of psychologists and specialists in diagnosis
• Interpreting Assessment Results
  • Understanding assessment reports
  • Communicating findings with stakeholders

Module 3: Developing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for Students with Autism

• Setting Realistic and Achievable Goals
  • Creating SMART goals tailored to individual needs
  • Aligning goals with developmental milestones
• Actionable Objectives
  • Data-driven insights for planning
  • Aligning objectives with curriculum standards and student capabilities

Module 4: Implementing Effective Intervention Strategies

• Behavioral Interventions
  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques
  • Positive behavior support strategies
• Communication and Social Skills Interventions
  • Developing communication skills
  • Enhancing social interactions and relationships
• Sensory Integration Strategies
  • Addressing sensory sensitivities
  • Adapting the classroom environment

Module 5: Monitoring and Adjusting Interventions

• Using Assessments to Track Progress
  • Formative and summative assessments
  • Regular progress monitoring
• Data Collection and Analysis
  • Informing instructional decisions
• Reviewing and Adjusting IEPs
  • Conducting regular reviews
  • Making necessary adjustments for continuous improvement

Module 6: Creating an Inclusive Classroom Environment

• Promoting Inclusivity
  • Best practices for fostering an inclusive classroom culture
• Addressing Challenges
  • Overcoming common barriers to inclusion
• Supportive Classroom Strategies
  • Enhancing classroom dynamics and promoting student engagement