1. Adult Training Modules
Guidance Document for Use
Introduction
As the number of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) continues to
increase, agencies are serving greater and greater numbers of adults with ASD in their
programs. By definition, these individuals present with a large and varying spectrum of
abilities and needs. Many of the behaviors shown by a person with autism are often
unique to the diagnosis and autism’s core characteristics. In order to best serve these
persons, whether in residential, day habilitation, employment or community settings, it is
important to for agency staff to be intentional in their learning about autism and the
strategies and interventions that specifically address many of these needs.
Development
The eleven (11) adult training modules have been developed by members of RAAC’s
regional Adult Task Force to assist in the ongoing professional development of agency
staff who serve adults with autism. Often agencies do not have the time and resources
to release staff from their jobs for needed training. Although specially designed so that
all staff can gain knowledge from their content, the modules were especially developed
for staff with little or no knowledge about autism. Therefore, language in these modules
has been simplified so that all staff can easily understand the content, taking out
specialized jargon when unnecessary. There are modules about general knowledge of
the characteristics of autism but also modules that have specific strategies that may
assist staff to be more successful in serving adults with autism.
Framework and Use
Each of the modules can be used alone or in group of topics. Although they vary in
length, most modules can be reviewed in 10-15 minutes. They are designed to be used
for self-study by staff, or they can be used as the core of more formalized group
instruction. Each module has a few “big ideas” that can serve as the focus of more
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2. group discussion. Pre- and post-tests could easily be developed for them to be used as
part of staff’s professional development plans.
Modules can be downloaded onto agency websites for wider distribution and access to
staff or family members. Their use is not proprietary, although it is requested that RAAC
be acknowledged as their developers.
RAAC can serve as a resource to agencies in their use of these modules, especially if
agencies use them for group instruction and would like training assistance. Call Kay
Brown, RAAC Coordinator, (513) 636-7616, with questions or requests.
Regional Autism Advisory Council (RAAC)
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