COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL SKILLS

PREREQUISITE: EDSP5040, GRADE OF B OR BETTER
This course on communication and social skills instruction fulfills part of the requirements for those wishing to obtain an ASD Endorsement from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. It addresses normal language and communication development and the language development of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Teachers will examine the language-behavior connection, how language delays can lead to social incompetence, and how language can be supplemented with augmentative and alternative interventions. Specific research validated instructional strategies focusing on the assessment and development of social and academic language skills are emphasized. This course explores assistive technology as a research supported tool to improve access to and participation in the general education curriculum. In addition, students will integrate assistive technology in lesson planning to meet students’ individual needs. Field experiences are embedded in this course.