Teachers College Conference Explores Innovations in the Education of Children with Autism
Two-day conference will evaluate educational interventions for children with autism and assess each method for evidence of research based practices
NEW YORK, March 29, 2006-'"A one-of-a-kind two-day conference focusing on the complexity of evaluating educational interventions for children with autism featuring keynote lectures by prominent professionals in the field of autism takes place at Teachers College, Columbia University, March 30 and 31 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
"The conference will highlight promising research-based interventions. It will also provide a forum for identifying key criteria for evidence-based practices that will ensure optimal outcomes for children with autism," said Linda Hickson, Director of the Center for Opportunities & Outcomes for People with Disabilities and the conference organizer.
Topics will include early identification and intervention strategies, a spotlight on specific instructional approaches, and the extent to which they can be considered evidence-based practices. Attention will be given to issues that span the age range from early childhood to adolescence and transition. The conference will conclude with a forum to initiate future actions that are needed to resolve these issues and ensure optimal educational outcomes for all children with autism.
Featured speakers include Jack Scott, director of the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at Florida Atlantic University, who will give the Leonard and Frances Blackman Lecture on the topic of "Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder." Scott's research focuses on early intensive behavioral intervention and parent-directed home programs and reading instruction for children with autism.
Other speakers include Nancy Wiseman, who has contributed to improvedawareness and changes in how young children are screened, referred and detected. She is the author of the newly released book Could It Be Autism? A Parent's Guide to the First Signs and Next Steps.
Barry Prizant, Director of Childhood Communication Services, a private practice, and an Adjunct Professor at the Center for the Study of Human Development, Brown University, will speak on The SCERTS Model, a comprehensive educational approach for children with Autism spectrum disorders.
Teachers College Professors Douglas Greer and Denise Ross will discuss verbal behavior and language delays.
Panel discussions at the end of each day will provide opportunities for parents and educators to engage in dialogue with the speakers about key issues.
For more information, please visit http://www.tc.columbia.edu/ceoi/autism/ .
Teachers College is dedicated to promoting equity and excellence in education and overcoming the gap in educational access and achievement between the most and least advantaged groups in this country. Through scholarly programs of teaching, research, and service, the College draws upon the expertise of a diverse community of faculty in education, psychology and health, as well as students and staff from across the country and around the world.
For more information, please visit the college's Web site at www.tc.columbia.edu.
Educational equity -- a moral imperative for the 21st century
Published Saturday, Jun. 17, 2006