The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

This program seeks to educate parents, teachers, and service providers on the use of data-driven instruction. It provides a detailed explanation of the practice, including a review of contemporary research. The program will provide attendees the opportunity to explore and apply the scaffolding technique, strategies for collecting data, and methods for interpreting results. Attendees will leave the program with the ability and motivation to begin using data-driven instruction in their homes and classrooms. The program will begin with a working definition of data and data-driven instruction. A brief history of how such instruction came to the US school system and No Child Left Behind legislation will be discussed. Following the introduction of the concept will be an overview of recent research completed on data-driven instruction. Both the advantages and disadvantages of data-driven instruction will also be explained.

At this point, the instructor will lead the group in a breakout session to introduce the topic of scaffolding/task analysis. Participants will be asked to write down the steps for making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Usually, participants generalize the task and in doing so, miss a step or two. The exercise demonstrates how task analysis calls for the breaking down of a task into small, manageable steps. The instructor will follow up by provding additional examples of how the aforementioned technique can be applied in both the school and home settings.

Next, the presenter will explain the method of collecting data. This task will be divided into the following components: selecting a meaningful task, creating procedures for completing the task (task analysis), determining a method for recording data, setting a manageable goal, creating a time frame in which data will be collected, recording student responses. The presenter will explain each component through the use of examples as well as allowing participants the opportunity to apply their newly learned knowledge to a student of their own.

The presenter will then review procedures for interpreting results. These procedures include: scoring student responses, qualitative and quantitative results, transferring raw data to charts and graphs, and using results in future planning and goal setting. Once again, hands on applications will be available for participants to practice the aforementioned tasks.

Finally, the presenter will demonstrate how data-driven instruction can be integrated into the home for use with behavior management, social skills, etc. The presenter will sum up the presentation and provide an opportunity for participants to ask clarification and follow-up questions.

Learning Objectives: