According to Michigan State University researchers, many educators in the state are not using some of the most effective teaching methods when working with the more than 15,000 Michigan students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Summer Ferreri, an MSU assistant professor of special education, and Sara Bolt, an MSU associate professor of school psychology conducted the study.
Using data from more than 200 school professionals, 34 parents of students with ASD, and classroom observations, the researchers found that more than 40 percent of the educators were not using techniques known as "Applied Behavior Analysis", and "Social Stories" (a method for teaching social skills to children with autism).
They also found it difficult to "access statewide data on students with ASD" and "concluded that better access is crucial to determine whether the services schools provide are actually helping students succeed."
From the MSU press release:
Suzanne Wilson, a University Distinguished Professor and chair of the Department of Teacher Education at MSU, said autism education is one of the most pressing issues facing educators today. “While autism rates have rapidly increased, many new and experienced teachers have little to no experience working with children with autism,” Wilson said. "Without the appropriate education, new teachers could, at worst, marginalize these students and, at best, be supportive but not effective.”
The researchers also found that 26% ASD students in Michigan "never or rarely had learning opportunities that reflected the general education curriculum."
And "one-third of the 194 Michigan teaching professionals responding said their students with ASD wouldn’t meet any grade-level achievement standards."
The findings of the research will be presented to the State Board of Education tomorrow (September 13). The study was conducted with funding from the Weiser family, the Kellogg Foundation, and the Skillman Foundation.
