Advanced Study of Autism Spectrum Disorders

Winter 2011-12 Trimester

(Nov. 29, 2011- Feb. 25, 2012)

Structured Teaching and Visual Supports

Applied Behavior Analysis & Positive Behavior Supports (Fall 2011 Trimester)

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in every ninety-one Americans is classified as having an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Communication impairment is one of the key deficits in autism spectrum disorder, and a common cause of behavior, social and academic difficulties. This course will examine typical communication development, differences in autism speech and language development, and communication assessments, along with promising practices that have been developed to address the unique communication needs of individuals with ASD, including the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), Functional Communication Training (FCT), Computer-Aided Instruction, Naturalistic Interventions; Social Narratives; Speech Generating Devices/VOCA; Video Modeling, and Visual Supports.

Using a combination of observation, in-vivo practice sessions, lecture and project based learning students will develop the necessary skills to apply their knowledge of communication supports across the autism spectrum.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

According to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual IV, the criteria required to confirm a diagnosis on the Autism Spectrum includes “restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests, and activities”.  Current research indicates that many of these behaviors are rooted in an atypical interpretation of typically occurring sensory information from the environment.  This course reviews the neurological foundations involved in processing sensory information and the influence of sensory processing on arousal regulation and readiness to learn.  In addition, this course offers a wide variety of strategies to better support individuals with ASD who struggle with sensory processing disorder.

CLASS SCHEDULE:

Spring 2012

Exact meeting day and time TBA

Relationship-based Approach to ASD

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course will examine the conceptual foundations for a relationship-based approach to working with individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorders.  In this approach, the focus of treatment is on social relationships rather than on specific behaviors or skills.  The approach emphasizes building social connections to establish the foundation for growth and learning.  Several theoretical programs will be explored that either are based on or incorporate a relationship-based approach, including DIR (Developmental, Individual-difference, Relationship-based approach)/Floortime, Son-Rise, RDI (Relationship Development Intervention), and SCERTS (Social Communication, Emotional Regulation, & Transactional Supports).

CLASS SCHEDULE:

Fall 2012

Exact meeting day and time TBA

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course will include “promising practices” that teach skills needed for successful social interactions. These include strategies such as social stories (Gray, 2000), cognitive behavior therapy (Attwood, 2006), and social thinking (Garcia-Winners, 2005) that focus on learning how to consider points of view, emotions, thoughts, beliefs, prior knowledge and intentions of others.

CLASS SCHEDULE:

Summer 2012

Exact meeting day and time TBA