Literacy is an essential component of success in school and in life, and can often serve as the foundation for building meaningful relationships with other people. However, creating literacy rich environments that address the unique needs of learners with autism spectrum disorders can be challenging.

In this course, you will first develop an understanding of the literacy needs of individuals with autism as the foundation for framing their instruction. Using video examples, we will then share specific strategies for engaging individuals with autism in increasing complex text and academic content, and supporting students in applying literacy skills to their social experiences.

Course Learning Objectives: 
At the end of the course, you will be able to:

• describe the literacy needs of individuals with autism
• describe the connection between literacy, social skill, and executive function interventions
• describe at least three approaches for engaging individuals with autism in increasing complex text and academic content
• discuss specific strategies for implementing literacy instruction with at least one learner with whom they work.