Comparison of Evidence-Based Practices for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA, 2015) reinforces and clearly defines the requirement of school districts to use evidence-based practices (EBPs) to improve student outcomes. The ESSA requires schools to find, evaluate, and implement effective EBPs that support high-quality learning for all students, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is necessary for teachers to use identified EBPs when developing individualized education programs and providing necessary interventions for students with ASD. The purpose of this article is to: (a) examine EBPs determined by two national organizations (i.e., National Professional Development Center, National Standards Project Phase 2), (b) compare overlapping EBPs to determine their effectiveness for students with ASD, and (c) make recommendations for educators and other school professionals teaching students with ASD in school settings. Identification and implementation of EBPs is essential for teachers who work with students with ASD to increase their academic and functional achievement and reach their fullest potential

Practical Strategies for Conducting and Documenting Classroom Observations in SLD Evaluation

Nearly half of all students receiving special education services are identified as students with a specific learning disability (SLD; National Center for Learning Disabilities [NCLD], 2014). The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires evaluation teams to analyze multiple data to determine if a student qualifies for special education services. In accordance with the federal law, a student must be observed in the regular classroom setting, and a description of the relationship between the behavior and academic functioning must be noted in a written Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE) report. Discussed in this article are recommendations and practical strategies related to conducting and documenting classroom observations that may be used by educational diagnosticians and other assessment professionals in an SLD evaluation

Practical Strategies for Improving Postsecondary Outcomes for Students with EBD

Transition from high school to adulthood is a difficult period of life for all youth, especially those with disabilities. Research indicates students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) experience difficulties in transitioning to a postschool environment. Their postschool outcomes in the areas of education, employment, and community participation continue to concern researchers, practitioners, and families and, therefore, demand improvement. Identification and implementation of transition-related evidence-based practices is essential for teachers who work with students with EBD to increase the likelihood of positive adult outcomes for these students. Discussed in this article are transition-related recommendations and practical strategies that may be used by teachers and other education professionals preparing students with EBD for life after school

A Matter of Time: English Language Learners and the RTI Process

The Response to Intervention (RTI) process is being used to assist all students, including English Language Learners (ELLs), who are experiencing academic difficulties and potentially qualifying for special education services. This article discusses suggestions for improving the RTI process by incorporating congruent time frames within the model and aligning it with timing necessary for language acquisition in ELLs. In addition, practical recommendations for expanding the expertise of current and future educators are presented to assist in providing effective services to ELLs students in the RTI process

Systematic Literature Review of Experiences and Supports for Students with ASD Post Hoc: Findings Regarding Diversity and Implications for Research and Educator Preparation

The following post hoc analysis examines cultural and/or linguistic information from a previous systematic literature review of 24 studies investigating demographic information, encounters, assists and suggestions of study participants enrolled in post-secondary education institutions with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The analysis and discussion of results appeal for the need to not only include and focus on diversity but to refocus on cultural consciousness. Implications and future directions for research and for educator preparation programs are proposed

Planning and Implementing Student-Led IEPs for Students With EBD

Students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) have difficulties in transitioning to postschool environments. Research has documented that postsecondary outcomes for students with EBD in the areas of education, employment, and community participation continue to be limited and, therefore, in need of improvement. Some of the outcomes relate to how transition programs integrate effective practices to support students with EBD. In this article, we describe a student-led Individualized Education Program (IEP) practice and provide step-by-step directions that can be used for planning and conducting student-led IEPs

The Change was as Big as Night and Day : Experiences of Professors Teaching Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Since the inception of the Higher Education Opportunity Act in 2008, there has been an increase in the number of post-secondary education institutions in the United States that have established inclusive postsecondary programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities to attend college and achieve higher levels of employment. Previous studies have investigated the development and outcomes of these programs, however, less has been explored related to professors\u27 experiences and perceptions regarding this unique student population, particularly within Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI). The current study focused on professors teaching inclusive courses within a new Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Program at a HSI and aimed to identify their perceptions and experiences related to instructing students with intellectual disabilities. Six professors participated in pre- and post-semester in-depth interviews. Findings from applied thematic analysis included: (a) barriers to success; (b) academic supports and strategies; (c) successful outcomes and (d) considerations for future, related programming

Considering Time: Practical Applications for Supporting Students With Disabilities in Hispanic Serving Institutions

Time is a concept often spoken and written about, but rarely identified as an asset for individuals with disabilities, particularly in Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI). The following discusses how systems and processes are impacted by time. The article further focuses on practical applications associated with time in supporting students with disabilities transitioning and acculturating to HSIs

Helping Students Make Informed Decisions About Transition Via Web-Based Resources

Although there are many transitions that occur in a young person’s life, transition from high school to adulthood can be one of the most challenging. This transition requires autonomy and decision-making skills. To support youth in having positive outcomes after high school, it is imperative for teachers to have strategies to guide students in making informed decisions as they begin the transition process. This article provides teachers with strategies and resources to help youth build autonomy, make informed decisions, and gain information via web-based resources to support the transition from high school into postschool life. Steps for building autonomy, evaluating web-based resources, and investigating web-based resources to support transition are included

Project SEARCH: Analysis of Employment Outcomes for Students with Disabilities Across Two Districts

Rehabilitation professionals have a major focus on competitive employment, which is a central component of adult life that provides not only economic benefits, but also a social network and enhanced self-esteem. The employment gap for individuals with disabilities has remained consistently high despite concerted efforts to provide access to quality job readiness training and a simultaneous increase in awareness of the value of diversity in the workforce. This study examined the outcomes of Project SEARCH, an employer-based transition program for young adults with disabilities that promotes partnerships among the school and community by utilizing a unique collaborative approach that brings the education system, employers, and rehabilitation services together to provide meaningful individualized employment experiences for students with disabilities. Findings suggest Project SEARCH appears to have the potential to address employment outcomes for young adults with various disabilities. Implications for practice and future research are also discussed