Research Database: Article Details

Citation:  Layden, S., Hendricks, D., Inge, K., Sima, A., Erickson, D., Avellone, L., & Wehman, P., (2018). Providing online professional development for paraprofessionals serving those with ASD: Evaluating a statewide initiative. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 48 (2), 285-294.
Title:  Providing online professional development for paraprofessionals serving those with ASD: Evaluating a statewide initiative
Authors:  Layden, S., Hendricks, D., Inge, K., Sima, A., Erickson, D., Avellone, L., & Wehman, P.,
Year:  2018
Journal/Publication:  Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:  IOS Press
DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-180932
Full text:  https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vocational-rehabil...   
Peer-reviewed?  No
NIDILRR-funded?  Yes

Structured abstract:

Background:  Paraprofessionals play an integral role in educating students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Students with ASD have unique learning characteristics which require specialized knowledge and skills in order to support them effectively in schools. However, paraprofessionals often do not receive the training needed to support this student population.
Purpose:  Delivering effective professional development to paraprofessionals is essential to the success of these students.
Data collection and analysis:  A model for delivering online professional development to paraprofessionals on a statewide level was implemented and evaluated.
Findings:  The evaluation concentrated on whether the online course changed the perceived knowledge and implementation of evidence-based practices and the attitudes of paraprofessionals toward students with ASD.
Conclusions:  Additionally, the existence of a relationship between occupational characteristics and participants’ reported knowledge was explored.

Disabilities served:  Autism / ASD
Populations served:  Other
Interventions:  Online training
Outcomes:  Other