SPED 7106 - Social Cognition

Recognizing differences in learning and perception is essential to teaching individuals on the autism spectrum. Individuals with ASD have unique social cognitive processing styles and needs that impact their participation in school and the community. In addition, they face unique challenges with executive functions such as organization, planning/prioritizing, and social self-monitoring. In this course, participants will gain advanced knowledge of social cognitive and executive function differences for individuals with ASD, learn about formal and informal assessment tools, and learn how to design and implement instructional programs that promote social participation and inter-personal interactions. The strategies explored in the course specifically target promoting skills in: social understanding, selfmonitoring/self-advocacy, problem solving, cognitive flexibility, and effective organization, planning, and time management skills.

Course assignments and resources access information from a variety of sources such as peer reviewed journal publications, text selections, web-based resources, direct student-application opportunities, and small group interaction to engage in relevant professional development and reflection, to increase knowledge and skill as a special educator, and inform your instructional practices with students and families. This course is a required course for the ASD licensure and an elective course for those seeking the ASD certificate.

Credits: 2