Personnel Preparation Practices in ASD

Abstract

The increased attention given to the implementation of personnel preparation programs in the field of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has directly paralleled the significant increase in the number of students identified with ASD. For this study, we sought to analyze key aspects of programs for professionals who work with students with ASD. In addition to a detailed analysis of multiple demographic characteristics related to these programs (e.g., length of time program offered, level of higher education at which the program is offered, number of courses within a program, field experiences, online options), a critical focus in the research was assessing the reliance on evidence-based practices by these training programs. We also examined characteristics and practices relevant to the training of behavior analysts through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) approved coursework.