Course | How to Reach and Teach Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder (Grades PreK-5)

Prices

The price listed is for the course with credit from ACE with the discount. Other pricing options are available for this course:

Course only: $144 with the discount.
Course with the credit from UCSD: $349 with the discount.

For further information, please visit Professional Development Institute website.

Course Description

You have up to nine months from the date you are enrolled to complete a flex course.

Are you finding it increasingly difficult to meet the needs of your diverse learners, especially those with autism spectrum disorder? As more students transition into the least restrictive environment, teachers are finding themselves at a loss concerning how best to reach this unique population in an inclusive setting. This online course for teachers of grades PreK-5 is specifically geared toward educators who want to explore a wide variety of strategies so that they are better positioned to meet the needs of students with autism in the least restrictive environment. Teachers will take a deep dive into autism spectrum disorder, otherwise known as ASD. As they progress through the course, teachers will learn how to adapt their instruction so that it can be differentiated to meet students with ASD at their level. Teachers will learn about the social aspects of ASD and how it can lead to anxiety, especially if there is a comorbid diagnosis. Teachers will learn strategies to help students with ASD remain structured. The basics of behavior are discussed, and teachers will learn about the various functions of behavior and the primary role that reinforcement plays in behavior intervention plans. Social skills deficits are discussed in detail, as this is one of the cornerstone characteristics of students with ASD. Teachers will learn a variety of strategies for helping students with ASD cope academically, behaviorally, socially, and emotionally in the least restrictive environment. Teachers will learn the importance of collaboration, and they will take a deep dive into the various co-teaching models. For detailed information on receiving university credit for your PDI course, visit Professional Development Institute credit page.

Topical Outline

ACE Course Number: LE5648
UCSD Course Number: EDUC42242

Unit One
Special Education: Then and Now
Breaking Down an IEP
The Importance of a Collaborative Community
Assignment #1: Write an autobiography
Test #1

Unit Two
Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder
Existing on the Spectrum
Comorbidity and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Assignment #2: Article reflection
Test #2

Unit Three
The Social Aspects of ASD
Anxiety and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Learning How to Engage with Peers
Assignment #3: Share your expertise
Test #3

Unit Four
How ASD Affects Academic Learning
Differentiating Instruction
The Importance of Routines
Test #4

Unit Five
Understanding the Basics of Behavior
The Role of Reinforcement in Behavior Intervention Plans
The Importance of Self-Regulation
Test #5

Unit Six
Teacher Collaboration and the Co-Taught Classroom
Partnering with Parents
Embracing the Entire School Community
Assignment #4: Respond to ASD student scenarios
Assignment #5: Course Reflection

Credit

Credit may be available for this course and may vary by country or institution. Please verify eligibility with Professional Development Institute.