Preparing and Supporting Individuals with Autism for Success in Higher Education

Description

Abstract

An increasing number of individuals with autism are entering adulthood without adequate preparation for successful transitions to college. Behavior analysts have much to offer these individuals as they prepare for life after high school. This presentation will provide an overview of skills critical for successfully navigating post-secondary education environments. The presentation will focus on how to assess and teach a variety of important skills. Outcomes of research and practice for teaching social skills and for providing supports to college students with autism will be described.

About the Speaker

Dorothea Lerman is currently a Professor of Psychology and Behavior Analysis at the University of Houston – Clear Lake, where she directs a master’s program in behavior analysis and serves as Director of the UHCL Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities. She received her doctoral degree in Psychology from the University of Florida in 1995, specializing in behavior analysis. Her areas of expertise include autism, developmental disabilities, early intervention, functional analysis, teacher and parent training, and treatment of severe behavior disorders. Dr. Lerman has published more than 80 research articles and chapters, served as Editor-in-Chief for The Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis and Behavior Analysis in Practice and has secured more than $2 million in grants and contracts to support her work. She was the recipient of the 2007 Distinguished Contribution to Applied Behavioral Research Award and the 2001 B.F. Skinner Award for New Researchers, awarded by Division 25 of the American Psychological Association. She also was named a Fellow of the Association for Behavior Analysis-International in 2008. Dr. Lerman is a Licensed Behavior Analyst and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.