Evidence Based Practices Series

I've been thinking about doing a series of posts on an Autism related topic.  I have heard a need for understanding of the Evidence Based Practices (EBP) for Autism, specifically some practical ideas.  This upcoming school year I would like to do a series of EBP related posts.  Each post will contain a brief overview of the EBP and 1 example of a use in the classroom and 1 example of a use in the speech room.  If you are servicing students on the spectrum, you need to know your EBPs.

So what is an EBP?  

It's not a CSI term. Basically, there are many interventions out there for individuals on the spectrum.  Researchers have analyzed the studies on many of them and come up with a list of evidence-based practices that have had a positive, statistically significant outcome....hence the name EBPs.

How many are there?

There are currently 27 practices that have been identified.  The list is updated periodically by the National Professional Development Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (NPDC).  They released their last update in 2014.

Where can I get more information?

The NPDC has lots of excellent information.

The Autism Internet Modules provide training videos on all the EBPs, a pre and post-test to check your understanding, checklists for implementation, case studies, and the list goes on.  This is my go-to site when I need a refresher.  It's very user friendly.  Plus it's free!

The California Autism Professional Training and Information Network (CAPTAIN) has a link to the above sites and lots of other good information.  CAPTAIN is a multi-agency network that focuses on training and coaching of the EBPs.

Why should I care about EBPs?

Individuals with Autism have a very unique way of learning new information.  A "one size fits all" approach is not legally defensible in a court room. It can be overwhelming to customize your classroom to fit everyone's needs.  The EBPs will help you individualize a whole-class lesson, remain legally defensible, and increase your students learning.  Remember the "I" in IEP.

I am so excited to research more and bring new ideas to share.