Video modeling (VM) interventions have increasingly been examined as a means of teaching social communication skills to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the research, which primarily used single-case research designs (SCRDs), pointed to inconsistent results across participants within studies and across studies. The purpose…

The number of secondary-level students with high-functioning autism (HFA) served in public school settings has increased in recent years, and many of these students have difficulty with social-behavioral expectations in such settings. Instructional specialists must know which interventions have been shown to be effective, so they can make informed…

Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) often demonstrate delays in early language and literacy skills. Shared reading, the practice of adults reading aloud to children while using behaviors (e.g., asking questions) that are meant to promote interaction between the adult and child, is an intervention that has had positive effects on those…

This article provides direction for educational decision making specifically for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), who have the cognitive and adaptive capabilities required to pursue postsecondary college education. The purpose is to draw attention to the available postsecondary pathways, 2- and 4-year college options, by addressing…

Despite growing knowledge of the effectiveness of various interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), it is never clear whether a particular intervention will be effective for a specific child with ASD. Careful monitoring of an individual child's progress is necessary to know whether an intervention is effective. In this…

Although legislation mandates that students with autism receive instruction linked to the general education core content, there is limited research supporting the effectiveness of interventions for teaching core content to these students. In this study, the author reviewed research conducted between the years 1997 and 2008 using computer-assisted…

Video instruction as an intervention for teaching skills to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is gaining increased momentum in applied settings.Video instruction, comprised of video modeling, video self-modeling, and point-of-view video, has been utilized in various fields of study with various populations and target behaviors.…

Legislation mandates that all children, including children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), be taught to read in ways that are consistent with reading research and target the five components of evidence-based reading instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, reading fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension strategies. This review synthesized…

This article describes characteristics of Asperger syndrome (AS) and the syndrome's impact in the home, school, and community. Social, behavioral and emotional, cognitive, academic, sensory, and motor characteristics of students with AS are reviewed. The restricted range of interests students with AS have is discussed. (Contains references.)…

This article explains the benefits of portfolio usage for students with autism spectrum disorder and details what to include and how to organize the portfolio. Suggested portfolio divisions include artifacts addressing socialization, communication, behavior, academic, functional skills, and fine and gross motor development. Sharing student…

This article provides a critical review of empirical investigations on the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and assistive technology with individuals with autism or pervasive developmental disorder. The review is presented by six topic areas: assessment, staff/family training, supports for augmented input, supports for…

A review of selected literature suggests that integrating multimedia computer supports with activity schedules can be an effective way to teach students to manage their work, play, and skill-building activities independently. Activity schedules originally were a means of promoting independent execution of previously learned responses by using…

This article reviews critical components of experience sharing, relates them to the specific social deficits found in children and adolescents with Asperger syndrome, then proposes factors in developing a relationship intervention program that would incorporate these essential components. The use of evenly matched peer partners for experience…

Discusses intervention and treatment options being used with the population of children and youth who have autism spectrum disorders. The discussion includes interventions based on relationship formation (including holding therapy, gentle teaching, options, and floor time), skill-based treatments, physiologically oriented intervention, and…

An overview is provided of the similarities and distinctions between individuals with autism and those with Asperger syndrome (AS). The cognitive and neurocognitive profiles underlying deficits characteristic of autism spectrum disorders are reviewed and particular emphasis is placed on comparisons of high-functioning autism to AS on the basis of…