Educational professionals will need particular skills to conduct effective evaluations of children with autism, and many of these skills rely heavily on observational and functional performance measures. Instruction of children with autism will draw upon a variety of methods or instructional techniques which the educator is already using. The difference may lie in how, when, and why the strategies are implemented. Strategies such as visual schedules, highly structured materials and directions, communication aides and sensory-specific activities are commonly used methods that assist in effective educational design. Strategies - Team uses the individual's abilities and needs to identify appropriate strategies to address goals.
Emphasis is placed on strategies that have scientific support for claims of efficacy.
Environment - Using environments in which the individual participates or will participate, the team identifies the structure, organization and predictability needed for success. Parent Involvement - Parent determines the level and type of involvement that meets the family's needs and resources. Developed and implemented by team using strategies from various methodologies that match the child's needs and abilities. Emphasis is placed on strategies that have scientific support for claims of efficacy. Regional Educational Consultants are also available to provide technical assistance in collaboration with intermediate unit personnel to promote effective local services.