Course List

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SPLED 461

(Autism I)

Autism: Issues and Concerns
Content includes an overview of characteristics and learning traits, classification systems, assessment strategies/issues, approaches, and interventions related to individuals with autism/pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). Special emphasis will be given to selecting evidence-based interventions, and the roles and responsibilities of educators.

1 credit

Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis
Basic principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), and elements of empiricism in education settings, reinforcement, stimulus control, punishment, prompting, fading, generalization, and maintenance. Application of ABA principles to classroom settings. A historical perspective concerning the application of ABA to individuals with autism, including discrete trial analysis of verbal behavior, and indirect instruction. Issues affecting persons with autism and their families will be addressed, including functional analysis, sleeping, eating, toileting/grooming, and determining credibility of treatments.

4 credits

SPLED 463

(Autism III)

Communication and Social Competence
Language development and communication strategies, issues, pragmatics, communications systems, augmentative and alternative communication systems (AAC), social deficits in autism, and approaches for teaching social skills.

3 credits

SPLED 464

(Autism IV)

Assessment and Curriculum
Types of assessment, such as screening, diagnosis, and identification of skills in development diagnosis; identification of skills in developmental domains, such as sensory, oral motor, play, and communication; practical strategies detailing what to teach based on assessment results; and an overview of curricula approaches and and materials. 

3 credits

SPLED 465

(Autism V)

Asperger Syndrome
Characteristics, assessment, intervention, and curricula designed for individuals with Asperger syndrome, social skill development, and teaching academic content.

1 credit