ABSTRACT

This chapter provides an evidence-based practices to support learning for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It aims to understand ways to proactively set-up the learning environment for students with ASD. The chapter provides key research findings to support effective instruction and intervention for students with ASD in reading, writing, and mathematics. Students with ASD have a number of unique strengths and needs that can impact their success in academic environments. Students may demonstrate difficulties when tasks place demands on cognitive flexibility or psychomotor speed, or using effective strategies as task complexity increases or during experiential learning activities. Strategies include providing access to visual material that discusses the day's topics, providing books on tape or in digital format for students to review at home, or briefly discussing the day's plan. Students with ASD may experience multiple challenges to academic success in the inclusive classroom related to cognitive flexibility, memory, and executive functioning.