Autism Spectrum Disorders

SPED 561. Methods for Autism Spectrum Disorder. 3 Credits.

This is a required course in a sequence of interdisciplinary courses focusing on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Its central purpose is to address commonly implemented intervention strategies, particularly those considered to be evidence based or research supported in the field of ASD. This course examines the current literature base supporting various interventions and strategies with a focus on matching the needs and strengths of individuals with ASD to the most appropriate intervention method based on data driven practice and research support for a particular intervention. F,S,SS.

SPED 567. Assessment in Autism Spectrum Disorder. 3 Credits.

This course is a required course in a sequence of interdisciplinary courses focusing on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This course will address the entire process of program planning for students with ASD including screening, evaluative assessment, ongoing assessment, using assessment to guide intervention planning, and monitoring progress. Students will explore a variety of methods and tools commonly used with individuals with ASD; specifically, standardized assessments, checklists, rating scales, structured observation tools, and curricular based assessments. Its central focus is on assessing the ongoing needs and strengths of individuals with ASD in order to plan successful interventions in further differentiating instruction. S,SS.

SPED 562. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Supports Across the Lifespan. 3 Credits.

This course is in a sequence of interdisciplinary courses focusing on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Issues related to parental reactions to diagnosis, stressors at home and school, strategies for empowering families, transitional situations for individuals with ASD, transitions to jobs and college, and legal issues will be explored. The central purpose of the course is threefold: a) to provide current information related to the chronic stressors experienced by caregivers and/or family members of persons with ASD; b) to provide current information regarding career/vocational options related to transitions from high school through adult life; and c) to provide current information regarding legal issues related to the provision of lifelong supports for persons with ASD. Prerequisite: Completed degree from a related field of study. S.

SPED 564. ASD: Structured Teaching. 3 Credits.

This is an elective course in the sequence of interdisciplinary courses focusing on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Its central purpose is to learn and apply the TEACCH methods with fidelity. There is a focus on the design and implementation of visually supported instruction. This method can be applied to instruction for individuals both with and without ASD. F.

SPED 565. ASD: Level 1 Supports and Foundations. 3 Credits.

This course is in a sequence of interdisciplinary courses focusing on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), specifically regarding individuals without an accompanying intellectual impairment. This includes those requiring level 1 supports such as high functioning autism, Asperger syndrome, or ASD requiring lower levels of support. Assessment, functional analysis, evidence-based practices, and transition will be addressed. Prerequisite: A completed degree from a related field of study. SS.

SPED 566. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Intensive Early Intervention. 3 Credits.

This is an elective course in the sequence of interdisciplinary courses focusing on children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) birth to age six. Topics addressed will include basic characteristics of young children with ASD, the developmental implications for the children and their families, and research-supported early interventions utilizing a family-centered approach with an emphasis on natural learning opportunities. Prerequisite: A completed degree from a related field of study. F,SS.