Positively Autism


Lesson Modifications and Accommodations
Volume 2, Issue 10 ~ November, 2007


Current Autism Research
Research on Modifications and Accommodations


About the "Current Autism Research" feature:
"Current Autism Research" lists articles about autism that have been recently published. To read these articles, subscriptions to the journals in which they are published can be purchased. However, this can become expensive, and another way to obtain these articles is through local college and university libraries. Many of these libraries contain a section entitled, "Periodicals," or something similar, and the journals may be found there in alphabetical order. Often, copies can be made, or you can simply read the journal at the library and take notes. This is a great way for parents, teachers, families, and others to stay current on trends in autism research, and may help you discover new strategies for home, school, or community goals.

Note: A listing of research here does not imply an endorsement of the methods or procedures by Positively Autism. Please thoroughly research any program or method that you are considering, obtaining any necessary help from professionals familiar with your situation. The following research articles were obtained using a search of Academic Search Primer for the terms "autism AND modification" and "autism AND accommodation."

Title: "Interventions for Increasing the Academic Engagement of Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders in Inclusive Classrooms"

Author(s): Gay Goodman and Cathy Williams

Journal: Teaching Exceptional Children

Issue: July/August 2007 (Volume 39, Issue 6)

Summary of Abstract: This article contains strategies to increase the engagement of students with autism in the classroom setting. Strategies discussed include auditory engagement (following verbal instructions and responding to questions), visual engagement (looking at teachers, peers, or educational materials), and social engagement (participating in classroom activities).


Title: "The Effects of Token Reinforcement on Attending in a Young Child with Autism"

Author(s): Rachel S. F. Tarbox, Patrick M. Ghezzi, and Ginger Wilson

Journal: Behavioral Interventions

Issue: July 2006 (Volume 21, Issue 3)

Summary of Abstract: In this study, token reinforcement was implemented in order to increase a young child with autism's attending behavior. The results of this study indicate that the token reinforcement system maintained attending when the back-up reinforcer was available and accessible immediately.


Title: "Project DATA for Toddlers: An Inclusive Approach to Very Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder"

Author(s): Gusty-Lee Boulware, Ilene S. Schwartz, Susan R. Sandall, and Bonnie J. McBride

Journal: Topics in Early Childhood Special Education

Issue: Summer 2006 (Volume 26, Issue 2)

Summary of Abstract: This article discusses an early intervention inclusion program for children with autism ages 1 through 3 years of age. The discussion includes the components of the program, outcome data, and implications for other early intervention programs.


Title: "A Case Study on Autism: School Accommodations AND Inclusive Settings"

Author(s): Kenneth M. Coffey and S. John Obringer

Journal: Education

Issue: Summer2004 (Volume 124, Issue 4)

Summary of Abstract: This case study consists of interviews of a mother and father with two children with autism. The articles discusses the supports used in the education of the children. Implications for educators and for future research are also discussed.


Title: "Community Inclusion for Children and Youth with Developmental Disabilities"

Author(s): Ellen Fennick and James Royle

Journal: Focus on Autism & Other Developmental Disabilities

Issue: Spring 2003 (Volume 18, Issue 1)

Summary of Abstract: This article describes a pilot project involving inclusive community recreation activities. Children with disabilities, including autism, participated in, increased skills, and expressed enjoyment in activities such as swimming and gymnastics. Recommendations for directors of inclusive recreation programs are also included.


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