The Autism Model School uses these methods in our teaching process:
Applied Behavior Analysis/Verbal Behavior Approach (ABA/VB) – The science of understanding and improving socially significant behavior. The Verbal Behavior Approach is based on the work of B.F. Skinner in 1957. Verbal Behavior (VB) is any communication involving a listener including speaking, signing, exchanging pictures, pointing, writing, typing, gesturing, etc. Also includes crying or displaying other problem behaviors in an attempt to obtain attention or tangibles, or to escape unwanted activities. An important component of VB is Intensive Trial Teaching (ITT). This refers to fast-paced VB instruction usually done at the table using error-less teaching, fading in demands, mixing and varying, prompting procedures and an established VR.
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) - A communication system developed by Dr. Andy Bondy and Ms. Lori Frost. Using this system, children are taught to exchange pictures of items to indicate their wants and needs.
Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS) – Written by Drs. James Partington and Mark Sundberg, ABLLS Is often used within ABA/VB programs as an assessment tool, curriculum guide, and skills tracking system.
Errorless Teaching – A technique used within VB programs to prevent or reduce errors. A prompt is provided immediately after the direction is given or question is asked and then that prompt is faded out via a transfer trial.
Edmark Reading Program - A sight word based reading program.
Reading Mastery - A multi-sensory phonetic based reading program.
Project MORE - A reading program consisting of leveled readers that addresses sight words, word decoding skills, comprehension skills, and fluency development. This program is implemented by volunteer tutors 30 minutes a day, 4 days a week.
Sensational Strategies Reading Program – A multi-sensory approach for beginning readers.
Touch Math – A multi-sensory approach to learning mathematics using touchpoints.
Touch Money - A multi-sensory approach to learning money.
Hands-On Standards Math - An academic content standards based math program using manipulatives.