While assessments of general social proficiency constructs are numerous in the ASD literature, and in the special education literature more broadly, investigations of the latent structure(s) of "vocational-specific" social proficiency constructs have yet to receive serious empirical investigation. Furthermore, trends in this literature…

This vocational program book is intended to assist vocational rehabilitation counselors in moving toward the goal of community employment for people with autism. The first section considers vocational issues for this population and discusses the following: autism and work, educational experiences/programming, vocational evaluations, purposes of…

The final report of the Transition from School to Work Project of Employment Opportunities, Inc. in Raleigh, North Carolina, describes efforts to provide students with job experiences and leisure education. The project provided work experiences for 49 students, ages 17-22, with disabilities including autism, mental retardation (IQ range from less…

This guide discusses the processes involved in helping students with cognitive disabilities such as mental retardation find and keep a job. Following an introduction, the guide discusses the types of employment available for these youth and young adults in competitive and supported employment settings. The following section looks at the roles of…

The transition from school to adulthood is a pivotal time in the lives of all students. For a student with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), change of any kind can be challenging. A transition as momentous as this can seem daunting indeed. Thoughtful planning, good information, and open communication will help parents work with their young adult and…

This volume of the National Longitudinal Transition Study of Special Education Students (NLTS) offers statistical data relating to 475 students (ages 13-21) with health impairments, defined to include youth having limited strength, vitality, or alertness due to chronic or acute health problems that adversely affect education performance (includes…

This book provides basic information about Asperger Syndrome by addressing issues related to the characteristics of the disorder and outlining basic methods to facilitate the growth and development of children and youth with Asperger Syndrome. Chapter 1, "Understanding the Meaning and Nature of Asperger Syndrome," provides the diagnostic criteria…

This summary of the Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments of 1990, Public Law 101-476, identifies how these Amendments extend and expand special education research, demonstration, and training programs of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA authorizes three state formula grant programs and several discretionary grant…

This book presents 19 chapters on life span perspectives and service issues for people with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. The book presents best practices and provides a view of the range of services necessary to work with people who have those disabilities. It is intended to provide a core reference for providers in the…