From DT to DI: Using Direct Instruction to Teach Students with
ASD
Cathy L. Watkins, Ph.D., BCBA, California
State University
The number of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders
(ASD) has increased substantially and many students with ASD are
general education classrooms. The transition to a less restrictive
educational placement presents special challenges for students with
ASD whose early learning experiences have consisted primarily of
structured 1:1 teaching. Teachers need effective instruction that
can be integrated into typical classroom routines and activities.
In addition, landmark legislation (IDEA and NCLB) requires the use
of instructional methods that are based on scientific research.
Direct Instruction can provide a practical and effective option.
Direct Instruction programs are scientifically-based but, more
importantly, they are empirically-validated. More than 30 years of
research has shown Direct Instruction to be effective in addressing
the needs of students ranging from those with severe disabilities
to those identified as gifted, suggesting that the principles
underlying effective instruction are more important in the process
of learning than the special characteristics of any particular
student population.
Direct Instruction programs are based on two overarching
beliefs: All children can be taught and all teachers can be
successful when given effective materials and presentation
techniques. In this session, Dr. Watkins will discuss how Direct
Instruction programs can address the unique needs of learners with
ASD while supporting the acquisition of academic skills. The
presentation will provide an overview of Direct Instruction,
present video examples of instructional programs, and describe
features of instructional design and delivery methods of DI
programs that make them effective and efficient tools to teach
children with autism spectrum disorders.
Dr. Cathy L. Watkins received a doctorate from the University of
Florida in 1987. She is a Professor of Special Education at
California State University, Stanislaus and Co-Director of the
Center for Direct Instruction. Dr. Watkins is a Board Certified
Behavior Analyst and past president of the California Association
for Behavior Analysis.
Dr. Watkins serves on the editorial boards of the Journal of
Direct Instruction and Education and Treatment of Children.
She is a member of the Advisory Board of the Cambridge Center for
Behavioral Studies and the Board of Directors of the Association
for Direct Instruction. She is co-author of The Components of
Direct Instruction in Introduction to Direct Instruction
and consulting author of SRA's Ravenscourt Books.
Dr. Watkins has experience working with both general and special
education students. She trains and supervises teachers at the
university and in public schools. She has consulted with schools
and other agencies including the National Institute for Direct
Instruction (NIFDI) and the Effective Schools Model of Project
Follow Through. Dr. Watkins was honored with the Association for
Direct Instruction's Excellence in Education Award for College
Teaching and Staff Development. Her primary interest is in helping
children and their teachers to be successful.
BACB/APA CE credits offered for this
event