INTERVENTIONS FOR INCREASING THE ACADEMIC ENGAGEMENT OF STUDENTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS IN INCLUSIVE CLASSROOMS

Article By: Gay Goodman & Cathy M. Williams Presented By: Cassandra Cable

Facts about Autism

Increased numbers of students with ASD in mainstream settings Occurrence has increased from 2 to 6 children per 1,000 Number of students receiving special education services with an ASD increased six-fold Children with ASD show a limited range of interests, lack peer relationships, and resist participation

Chart from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Article Overview
Professional literature provides strategies that are only tested in controlled laboratory settings This article provides real-life strategies for inclusive classrooms Four main areas: Auditory Visual Social Physical Use strategies to reduce inappropriate behavior

Auditory Engagement
Students with ASD have a hard time following directions and responding to questions Strategies:
Using songs to facilitate transitions Using songs during listening activities

Visual Engagement
Students with ASD focus on the movement of objects in the classroom; dont focus on teachers or partners or the materials being presented Strategies:
Increasing independence Using visual schedules Incorporating models for play Maintaining academic group focus Following information presented on boards Following stories read aloud Identifying important information (Highlighting)

Social Engagement
Students with ASD tend to keep to themselves and dont express wants and needs Strategies:
Requiring responses Encouraging choice making Facilitating peer interaction

Physical Engagement
Students with ASD engage in repetitive motor movements; more likely to happen during times of sitting and listening Strategies:
Providing objects to hold Incorporating opportunities for movement Including imitation activities

ACTIVITY TIME!

Discussion Questions
Do you know of any other activities that would be beneficial for students with ASD? Do you see any problems with the activities that were in the article?