Publisher Description

Similar to a handbook in its comprehensive description of the theory and research supporting current practices in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders, this interdisciplinary text shows how the existing knowledge base can be used to explore promising new possibilities related to the field's many unanswered questions. Key features include the following: Comprehensive -- This is the first book to consider the history and current state of autism as a field in transition, to cover its varied approaches and philosophies, and to describe the interventions used throughout the developmental cycle. Cross Disciplinary -- Serving students with autism necessitates communication and collaboration among professionals from several disciplines as well as family members. The editors have, therefore, brought together divergent perspectives, theories and philosophies in order to demonstrate that scientific evidence, rather than educational orientation, must determine which practices should be selected for use in particular Based -- Whereas many existing texts advocate a particular type of treatment, this one recognizes that interventions must be selected and evaluated based on the scientific evidence of their effectiveness. Integrated Methodology --Chapter authors consider findings from studies that employed single-subject designs, experimental large-scale studies, and qualitative methodology. The inter-relatedness of therapies and disciplines will be highlighted throughout. Expertise -- The volume editors are all highly visible researchers in autism and developmental disabilities. Likewise, each chapter is directed by a senior, highly accomplished author who is nationally recognized for his/her work in the topic being addressed. This book is appropriate for practicing professionals in education and psychology and for speech/language therapists and other clinicians. It is also suitable as a graduate level text in these fields.

Table of Contents

PrefaceI. Knowledge of the Field of Autism1. Autism Spectrum Disorders: Historical, Legislative, and Current Perspectives, Mary L. White, J. David Smith, Tom E.C. Smith, Robert Stodden 2. Definitions and Clinical Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Joel D. Bregman & Claudine Higdon3. Identification and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Constanza Columbi, Sophy Kim, Alayna Schreier, Catherine LordII. Approaches and Philosophies in Educating Students with Autism4. Applied Behavior Analysis and Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Jack Scott & Kyle Bennett5. DIR: The Developmental, Individual Difference, Relationship-Based Model: A Dynamic Model for the 21st Century, Serena Wieder6. Structured Teaching and the TEACCH Program, Gary B. Mesibov, Victoria Shea, Stephanie McCaskill7. Academic Development through Integrated Behavioral Experiential Teaching, Dianne Zager & Francine Dreyfus8. The Ziggurat Model and Comprehensive Autism Planning System, Brenda Smith Myles, Sheila M. Smith, Ruth Aspy, Barry G. Grossman, Shawn A. HenryIII. Education through the Developmental Stages9. Cultural and Linguistic Diversity and Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Elizabeth A. West & Pei-Yu Chen10. Early Intervention and Early Childhood Years, E. Amanda Boutot & Jennifer L. Walberg11. Education through the Developmental Stages: School-Age Children and Adolescents, L. Juane Heflin & Jackie S. Isbell12. Social Skills Interventions and Programming for Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Richard Simpson, Jennifer B. Ganz, Rose Mason13. Promoting Self-Determination and Social Inclusion: A Review of Research-Based Practices, Michael L. Wehmeyer & Tom E. C. Smith14. Transition to Postsecondary Education, Employment, and Adult Living, Michael L. Wehmeyer & James R. Patton15. Family Support and Involvement throughout the School Years, Teresa Taber-Doughty & Emily C. BouckIV. Inter-Related Disciplines in Autism16. Enhancing Language and Communication Development, Carol Alpern17. Assistive Technology to Support People with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Kim Spence-Cochran & Cynthia Pearl18. Collaboration and Cooperative Teaching for System-Wide Change, Jack Hourcade & Gardner Umbarger

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