The curriculum has been developed to ensure that the principles of ABA are embedded throughout.  The course will focus on the significance of the TA in a student’s success.  Participants will work towards a process of critical observation and critical thinking. Areas  of instruction and focus are: 

• Social Communication including expressive and receptive language and social understanding/hidden curriculum 
• Regulation including sensory processing and anxiety
• Cognition and information processing including learning differences and learning styles.    

This course will be presented using adult learning techniques such as interactive  learning, sharing of experiences and working through case studies. Participants will be  provided with resources and strategies in each of the areas.     

There is an expectation that participants in this training have a basic level of understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) received through school board in-service, School Support  Program training, or other training opportunities.   For those who require an introduction to ASD prior to beginning the 2-day onsite training,  please visit E-Learning at www.elearning.autism.net 

The course will be offered over 2 days. Feedback and experience indicate that 2 consecutive days are best for participants receiving this training.  We will however, work with school boards/authorities to utilize training days as requested.  The training will be delivered using the principles of effective adult education.   

This course is designed for a maximum of fifty participants in order to facilitate  interactive learning and group discussion. The expectation is that that the fifty participants will complete both days of the course.   

Teachers’ assistants may participate in an elective evaluation process that would enable them to receive a certificate of achievement.

The Centre’s E-Learning website will provide online access to continuing education on ASD and practical teaching strategies.