Chrctrstcs & Nds Stuw/Autism&Muldsa

Catalog description

This course focuses on the characteristics and needs of students with autism and other severe and multiple disabilities. These students are often challenged by significant weaknesses in intellectual development, communication and multiple sensory and physical difficulties. The needs of this population for on-going and varied levels of support in order to participate in inclusive general education and community settings will be identified and explored. Specific instructional and related strategies in the following areas will be included: communication instruction, acquisition of adaptive behaviors, causes of and strategies to manage challenging behaviors, acquiring social skills, assessing and planning for sensory and motor needs, family centered practices, and collaboration with a range of professionals. Theoretical foundations underlying current learning and living practices will be reviewed. The needs of young children and teenagers with autism and/or severe and multiple disabilities will also be integrated into this course. Research-based strategies for these students in inclusive general education and community settings will be implemented.