Improving Educational Programs for Students with Autism in Rural Schools: A Preliminary Program Description of the Montana Autism Education Project

Abstract

The Montana Autism Education Project (MAEP), that started in 2010, aimed to: (a) increase teacher knowledge of Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs), (b) provide on-site technical assistance and peer-to-peer collaboration, (c) develop sustainable support for teachers across Montana, and (d) develop inter-agency collaboration between the project and various stakeholders. Preliminary evaluation focused on three categories: (a) consultant visits, (b) trainings, and (c) video training via Internet technology. Analysis of data suggests that MAEP helped improve teachers' ability to implement quality educational programs for students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), especially in rural areas and in schools located on or near Indian reservations. Future directions for statewide efforts are highlighted.

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