Specialized Studies Program in Autism Spectrum Disorders
The new Autism Spectrum Disorders Specialized Studies Program consists of an integrated series of courses that provide both a theoretical and practical foundation for educators, parents, paraprofessionals, social workers and others who serve children with autism spectrum disorders. This program has been approved by the faculty of the UC Davis M.I.N.D. Institute and the UC Davis School of Education.
| UNITS | F | W | SP | SU | ||
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| REQUIRED COURSES | Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 | 
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| Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sacramento | 3 |
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| Best Practice Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 |
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Classroom format
Online Learning format
Classroom and Online Learning formats |
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Required Courses
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders
3 quarter units academic credit, X361.35.
Gain an understanding of autism spectrum disorders and the implications the disability has on an individual's learning, behavior and ability to process information. Learn current research on potential causes and treatments, provisions for service, legal and ethical issues, and areas of impairment.
Watch videos of people with autism spectrum disorders and listen to guest lecturers, including several from the UC Davis M.I.N.D. Institute. Participate in group discussions and perspective building activities designed to increase awareness of living with autism spectrum disorder. This course, the first of three in the Autism Spectrum Disorders Specialized Studies Program, is designed for educators, paraprofessionals, service providers, family members and employers of people with autism spectrum disorder.
This course is not currently scheduled.
Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sacramento
3 quarter units academic credit, X361.36.
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development lists applied behavior analysis among the recommended treatment methods for autism spectrum disorders. Gain a general understanding of applied behavior analysis (ABA) principles and how they can be used in an educational environment to teach various skills and support student behavior. Examine such strategies as positive reinforcement, teaching of functional-equivalent replacement behaviors, shaping, prompting, errorless learning, discrete trial teaching (DTT), as well as other naturalistic behavioral strategies. You will have opportunities to apply the concepts and principles you learn in class through role playing and other hands-on activities.Prerequisites:
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders, Currently serving or desire to work with students on the autism spectrum in an educational capacity.
This course is not currently scheduled.
Best Practice Strategies and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders
3 quarter units academic credit, X361.37.
Gain a general understanding of the many best practices strategies and methodologies for instructing students with autism. A number of evidence based-strategies are covered including structured teaching, accommodations, modifications, peer-mediated interventions, self-advocacy and self-awareness training and strategies for addressing social, play and leisure activities.
Prerequisites:
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders, Currently serving or desire to work with students on the autism spectrum in an educational capacity.
This course is not currently scheduled.
For More Information
Download an Autism Spectrum Disorders Specialized Studies Program brochure for a list of current quarter courses and enrollment information. 
(187 KB)
Download a M.I.N.D. Institute Summer Institute on Neurodevelopmental Disorders brochure (585 KB)
