The Autism Intervention Network for Behavioral Health (AIRB) has set the standard for developing, implementing and evaluating interventions in under-resourced communities, including impoverished schools and communities, and with families from traditionally disenfranchised groups. This study builds on previous AIRB work to investigate methods of sustaining evidence-based practices to support autistic students in schools. Through participating in this study, you will not only be contributing to data that will impact future practices, but you/your child’s educator will also receive free training in evidence based methods to support your autistic student/child.
What are the goals of the study?
To develop and evaluate a multi-phase implementation and sustainment strategy to support evidence-based practice use across different ASD interventions, settings and ages. Objectives (non-exhaustive): Conduct studies in under-resourced settings, test a multi-phase implementation strategy using rigorous scientific methods, and deliver training for evidence-based interventions using remote delivery methods; develop and test tools and resource guidelines to promote access to and sustainability of effective interventions; widely disseminate interventions, tools, and guideline
What will happen during the visit or online?
Participants will be expected to complete a 10-15 minute online survey. The first 100 participants will be award
There are 2 types of participants we are recruiting for this study:
- Elementary school level educators/staff:
Educators will be expected to be matched with at least one elementary aged student that meets the student participation criteria whom they will support at recess throughout the school year. Educators will receive an introduction to Remaking Recess – a social engagement intervention for autistic students and their peers. It covers topics such as assessment, communication, flexibility, and conflict mediation. School staff, such as paraeducators, will be trained to use Remaking Recess and will be provided coaching from trained research personnel. Educators will be asked to fill out surveys at 3 time points during the study – at the start of the school year, at the end of the school year, and at the start of the following school year. Completion of surveys for each time point will be awarded with a $25 gift card. - Elementary aged students with ASD/NDD diagnosis and spend 50% or more of their time in general education:
Students will receive support at recess from the educator they are paired with in creating social connections, increasing flexibility, improving communication and social skills, and so on. One parent/legal guardian of each student will be asked to complete a survey about their child.
How will this help families?
This study will provide free Remaking Recess training for participating educators at your child’s school. This will help educators understand how to support your child at recess, including facilitating peer interactions, teaching flexibility, and modeling social behaviors. Your student will benefit from the extra training that their educators will receive, and we hope that the skills their educators learn from this study will continue even after the study is over.