autism spectrum disorders Specialization

The Lesley University 15-credit Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Specialization recognizes a range of educational methodologies and delivery of instruction to support all educators in providing opportunities for students with ASD to access learning effectively.  No single intervention as been identified as effective for every child with ASD. Therefore, this educational program explores a range of evidence and practice-based interventions demonstrated to positively impact the needs of this student population.

Consistent with Lesley University’s long tradition of preparing teachers, the ASD Specialization offers practical strategies consistent with the classroom climate. Students in the ASD specialization will explore approaches based on the unique learning needs of students with ASD, including communication, behavior, social skills, sensory experiences, and challenges with transition, including environmental change and changes in daily routines.   Graduate students in the ASD Specialization Program will complete 150 hours of required field observation (75 of which are completed in conjunction with coursework).

This specialization is suitable as an addition to any licensure program in education or for any professional working with students with autism in an educational capacity.

The program consists of the following five courses:

ESPED 5013 - Introduction to the Autism Spectrum Disorders: Educational Implications and Teaching Strategies

Course Description:
This course will address autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The major focus of the course will be to explore the etiology of the spectrum disorders, beginning with scientific and medical theories, leading to an overview of the major educational law relating to ASD both federally and at the state level. Presentation and severity of the different diagnoses considered part of the spectrum will be explored. Criteria for diagnosis , examining DSM-IV-TR categories, will be discussed, as well as hallmarks of each of the diagnoses of the spectrum. Identification of the disorders, age of diagnosis, identifying behaviors and characteristics will be presented. Medical and scientific research, which supports our current understanding of the spectrum disorders, will be the basis for course discussions and assignments. The course will conclude with an overview of the law which impacts placements, schools and families children with ASD. This course has a required 15-hour field experience component.

Targeted Audience:
Teachers, School Administrators, Public Health Providers, Parents, Paraprofessionals, and Early Intervention Personnel.

This course may be taken for graduate credit or it may be audited.

ESPED 6015: Communication Considerations for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Course Description:
This course will explore the symptomology of autism, specifically in the developmental area of communication. The course will include a general overview of the major educational theories/interventions, with a specific focus on communication interventions, including evidence-based approaches and technology that supports the communication of students with ASD. This course has a required 15 hour field experience component.

Targeted Audience:
Teachers, School Administrators, Public Health Providers, Parents, Paraprofessionals, and Early Intervention Personnel.

This course may be taken for graduate credit or it may be audited.

ESPED 6016 - Behavioral Support for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Course Description:
This course will introduce the behavioral features associated with autism spectrum disorders. Participants will explore the major behavior change theories and how they relate to appropriate and ethical classroom practice. Evidence and practice-based models to address behavior will be reviewed, including applied behavior analysis, positive behavior support, discrete trial teaching, sensory interventions, art and music therapy, daily life therapy and strength training interventions. Participants will explore the impact of the environment on behavior. Participants will connect behavioral strategies to appropriate instructional and IEP goals and objectives, as well as design appropriate behavior intervention plans.

Targeted Audience:
Teachers, School Administrators, Public Health Providers, Parents, Paraprofessionals, and Early Intervention Personnel.

This course may be taken for graduate credit or it may be audited.

ESPED 6017 - Social Functioning and Skill Acquisition for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Course Description:
This course will review social skills and social competence needs; developing appropriate social skills intervention; informal and formal assessment of social skills; and social peer relationships. Theoretical foundations of cognition and language/communication will be explored. Participants will examine evidence based instructional strategies shown to be effective in promoting the development of social communication and social behavior skills for students with ASD. Participants will review evidence- and practice-based literature relating to social skills and increased success for students with ASD.

Targeted Audience:
Teachers, School Administrators, Public Health Providers, Parents, Paraprofessionals, and Early Intervention Personnel.

This course may be taken for graduate credit or it may be audited.

ESPED 6010 Assessment, Curriculum & Planning for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder *

Course Description
This is a graduate level course that examines assessment tools and strategies for use with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. This course explores formal and informal assessment procedures used with children and young adults who manifest learning characteristics of students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, including PDD/NOS, Autism, and Asperger’s Syndrome. Emphasis is placed on assessment procedures, including formal, informal and environmental practices, which inform curricular decisions. The course will examine both general education and alternative curriculum to assist pre-service and in-service teachers how to plan appropriate formal and informal assessment strategies. Sections of the IEP will be reviewed with regard to specific strategies for students with ASD, including transition to adult services.

This course has a required 15 hour field experience component.

*ESPED 6010 must be taken last

Semester offerings:

• ESPED 5013 Introduction to the Autism Spectrum Disorders: Educational Implications and Teaching Strategies (Fall, Spring and Summer)
• ESPED 6015 Communication Considerations for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Fall)
• ESPED 6016 Behavioral Support for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Spring)
• ESPED 6017 Social Functioning and Skill Acquisition for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Spring)
• ESPED 6010 Assessment, Curriculum & Planning for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Summer)

Students interested in registering two weeks prior need to contact the program coordinator, Elizabeth Stringer at estringe@lesley.edu for pre-course assignments.

Tuition:

$480/credit = $1440

Additional fees: $30 technology fee per course and $30 registration fee per semester.

For questions regarding registration please contact Sabina Petrucci at: spetrucc@lesley.edu

For course start and end date information please click the "Registration and course information link".