|
| From the Classroom to the Workforce: Teaching Vocational Skills to Individuals With an Autism Spectrum Disorder |
| Friday, May 26, 2017 |
| 4:00 PM–7:00 PM |
| Hyatt Regency, Centennial Ballroom B |
| Area: AUT/EDC; Domain: Service Delivery |
| CE Instructor: Julie S. Weiss, M.Ed. |
| JULIE S. WEISS (New England Center for Children), JULIENNE FAIRCHILD LEBLANC (New England Center for Children) |
| Description: Developing a successful vocational program for individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a process that begins in elementary school and continues through high school. Teaching functional skills is essential for successful career planning. In this workshop, we will review current methods to determine learner's job preferences and strengths. Secondly, we will review the importance of both work and social skills in establishing a career plan and goals. School-based vocational training includes teaching appropriate work habits, developing positive attitudes toward employment, and learning basic vocational tasks. Evidence-based instruction, including discrete trial teaching, task analysis, and incidental learning, are essential for acquisition. For an individual with an ASD, vocational academic activities aimed at increasing career awareness and employment preparation are essential. In this workshop, we will describe the components of career education and school-based vocational training in an ABA program for children with an ASD. Examples of vocational training, including curriculum development, successful job matches, means for developing opportunities for children to sample potential work options, and long-term development of career goals, will be reviewed. Case examples of children with an ASD engaged in vocational activities will be presented. |
| Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will be able to: (1) describe the components of school-based vocational training for children with an ASD; (2) describe steps for determining strengths and preference for job skills for children with an ASD; (3) describe steps of the career planning model for children with an ASD; (4) develop a vocational programming plan for a learner with an ASD. |
| Activities: Workshop objectives will be met through a variety of formats: lecture, videos, examples, case studies, guided practice and group discussion. Videos demonstrations of procedures will be used. |
| Audience: This workshop is targeted for BCBAs and educators working with children and adolescents with ASD with a focus on work readiness and teaching skills to improve employment outcomes. |
| Content Area: Practice |
| Instruction Level: Intermediate |