Autism From Multiple Perspectives

Abstract

Autism is the fastest-growing category for public education across the United States, however there is a continued shortage of highly qualified professionals. Supporting children with autism requires specialized knowledge and skills in evidence-based practices. Although a majority of individuals on the autism spectrum are supported by professionals from multiple disciplines, focus on autism in pre-service preparation is often developed without an interdisciplinary focus and without viewing autism through multiple lenses. This chapter shares the development, framework, multi-year outcomes, lessons learned and future direction for an interdisciplinary professional preparation program in autism. The program's conceptual framework includes disability studies, neurodiversity, and intersections with diversity, equity, and inclusion. Participants are guided to examine differing perspectives, collaborate across disciplines, and consistently reflect upon their own practice to develop the skills of reflective practitioners and changemakers in autism.