EDSP 501: Approaches for Supporting and Teaching Individuals with ASD
Prerequisite: EDSP 400 or EDSP 500
Credit Hours: (3)
Addresses a wide variety of approaches for teaching and supporting individuals with
autism spectrum disorders. Included are relationship-based approaches, approaches
based on the theories of applied behavioral analysis, biological or physiological
interventions, and other therapeutic interventions (e.g. art, dance, music, auditory
integration, discrete trial teaching).
Detailed Description of Content of Course
Students in this course will learn:
路The valuation of 鈥渢reatment鈥� approaches for individuals with autism spectrum disorder
(ASD) weighing cost versus benefit, risk versus benefit, and empirical and anecdotal
evidence of effectiveness.
路Common features of effective interventions, which include environmental accommodations,
intensive interventions that build upon interests and strengths, using home and community
settings, and typically developing peers, and holding a belief in a person鈥檚 competence
and enjoyment of their company.
路 Basics of relationship-based approaches (e.g., Developmental Individualized Relationship-based
(DIR鈩�) Approach, Son-Rise Program, SCERTS Model)
路Basics of approaches based on the theories of applied behavioral analysis (ABA) including
Discrete Trial Teaching and TEACCH (the Treatment and Education of Autistic Children
and related Communication Handicapped children)
路Basics of biological/physiological approaches (e.g., Sensory Integration Therapy,
Auditory Integration Training (AIT), Massage Therapy, Chiropractic Care, Special Diets,
Dietary supplements, Pharmacological interventions, Chelation therapy, Vision Therapy)
路Basics of other miscellaneous programs often marketed for autism (e.g., Pet Therapy,
Equine Therapy, Music Therapy, Art Therapy, Movement or Dance Therapy, Fast ForWord
and Earobics, and Auditory Discrimination In-depth).
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
This course may be conducted through lecture, discussion, cooperative group learning,
demonstrations, case study examples, textbook and journal article reading, and video
examples.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:
路Evaluate various approaches weighing the risks versus the benefits and evidence of
effectiveness of the approaches.
路Describe common features of approaches and means of determining effectiveness for
particular students.
路Identify learning styles observed in students with ASD and develop, implement, and
assess effectiveness of a program utilizing evidence-based practices and strategies
for teaching and supporting students with ASD.
Assessment Measures
May require students to:
路Complete reading assignments and participate in class discussions and activities.
路Complete quizzes and/or exams at the discretion of the instructor
路Develop and present on an ASD Approaches Guide that provides in-depth information
regarding one of the approaches shared in class. Information must include an evaluation
of risks, costs, benefits, and evidence of effectiveness.
路Develop, implement, and evaluate an action research project for a student with an
ASD utilizing one of the approaches shared in class.
路Write a lesson plan with accommodations and modifications for a student with autism
and deliver the lesson to a class that includes the student for whom the lesson was
designed.
路Present the implemented program and data related to its effectiveness.
Other Course Information
This class is co-listed with EDSP 401. Student performance will be evaluated through
differentiated assignments depending on EDSP 401 versus EDSP 501 level of the course.
Review and Approval
Approved: February 2010