Tri-State Webinar: A spectrum of voices: Listening to young adults with ASD

Webinar Description:

For an individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the transition from adolescence to young adulthood can create new challenges, as there is a continuing need for support, often with limited available resources. This is a time in which changes take place in development (e.g., emergence of different types of relationships) and when different life skills are necessary for success (e.g. maintaining a job). Many dynamics of social communication and social interaction also shift, depending on the individual's needs and goals. Therefore, supports for those with ASD should look different to reflect this movement into adulthood. Listening to those who are on the autism spectrum can help professionals be more sensitive to their goals, needs, concerns, wishes, and preferences. Often, the element of seeking individuals' input about programming, educational issues, independent living, employment, or housing is not included. Each young adult brings a unique perspective to this transition into adulthood. The objective of the panel is to allow professionals to acquire knowledge of how to serve such a diverse population by hearing voices whose wisdom can assist in increasing effectiveness.

Learning Objectives:

After attending this webinar participants will understand how to:

• Structure conversations with individuals with ASD to seek their input about programming and educational issues. 
• Assist individuals with ASD to articulate specific ideas and views to foster a strong partnership during the post-secondary transitions process. 
• Foster a symbiotic relationship where both professionals and Individuals with ASD are learning to create a supportive environment.

Presenter Information:

Mitzi J. Ritzman, Ph.D., CCC-SLP is an associate professor in the Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She is the director of a peer-mediated social learning program for young adults on the autism spectrum.

Certificate of Completion:

To earn a Certificate of Completion/Attendance for an archived Tri-State Webinar:

1. View the archived webinar on our Moodle site
2. Submit the responses to the Study Questions (on Moodle)
3. A Certificate of Completion will automatically be populated. Download and/or print.

Click here for instructions on how to create a Moodle Account.

To log into Moodle fo to http://moodle.tasnatbs.org.

The webinars are listed by category and alphabetical order. The category for this webinar is Assessment.