INTRO TO AUTISM & CLINICAL

Current issues related to diagnosis, etiology, prevalence, and prognosis of ASD will be discussed. Candidates will learn the defining characteristics of, and diagnostic criteria for, ASD and other associated defining characteristics of, and diagnostic criteria for, ASD and other associated disorders. This course will explain the relevant history of the disorder as it relates to educational services for individuals with ASD. Candidates will be instructed on the use of various diagnostic instruments and procedures. Additionally, candidates will examine effective collaboration practices used with families, agencies, and the greater community when educationally planning for this population of students. This knowledge base will be built upon in subsequent coursework within the certification sequence. This course has been designed to ensure that students demonstrate required knowledge and skills as outlined by the Pennsylvania Department of Education's competency areas I (Characteristics and Etiology of ASD) and IV (Collaboration with Families, Agencies, and the Community).