ERIC Number: EJ1372231
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023-Apr
Pages: 18
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0014-4029
EISSN: EISSN-2163-5560
Promoting Paraeducators' Use of Evidence-Based Practices for Students with Autism
Ann M. Sam; Jessica R. Steinbrenner; Samuel L. Odom; Sallie W. Nowell; Victoria Waters; Yolanda Perkins; Mary White; Hariharan Swaminathan; H. Jane Rogers
Exceptional Children, v89 n3 p314-331 Apr 2023
The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of a teacher-implemented professional development program to increase the fidelity with which paraeducators use evidence-based practices (EBPs) in instruction for children with autism. Employing a modified multiple-probe design, investigators implemented the Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules for Paraprofessionals (AFP) program in four special education and four inclusive classrooms enrolling students with autism. As the teacher initiated features of the AFP program focusing on individual EBPs, level changes in paraeducators' EBP fidelity increased markedly, with replications across paraeducators demonstrating experimental control. Statistical analyses produced large effect sizes, Goal Attainment Scale scores indicated student progress, and participants' ratings reflected strong social validity. School closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic prevented the completion of the study, but the pattern of effects suggests the efficacy of the AFP program as a program of professional development for paraeducators providing instruction for children with autism.
Descriptors: Paraprofessional School Personnel, Students with Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Evidence Based Practice, Fidelity, Program Implementation, Elementary Schools, Intervention, Staff Development, Special Education Teachers
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Institute of Education Sciences (ED)
Authoring Institution: N/A
IES Funded: Yes
Grant or Contract Numbers: R324A170028