Educating Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Is Teacher Certification Area Associated with Academic Outcomes?

Although typically taught by special educators, few studies have examined if certification area is associated with academic outcomes for students with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The purpose of this study was to determine whether students with ASD scored better on language arts and mathematics...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Journal of Autism & Developmental Disorders Vol. 51; no. 2; pp. 550 - 564
Autores principales: Goldman, Samantha E., Gilmour, Allison F.
Formato: research tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Springer Nature 2021
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:Although typically taught by special educators, few studies have examined if certification area is associated with academic outcomes for students with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The purpose of this study was to determine whether students with ASD scored better on language arts and mathematics state assessments depending on teacher certification, and whether these associations varied by assessment type. We analyzed 3 years of state administrative data from students with ASD in grades 4–8 receiving special education services. Results showed students taking the regular or alternate assessment had similar academic outcomes regardless of teacher certification. Students who were taught by special education certified teachers and took the modified assessment had lower academic outcomes. Implications for practice, policy, and research are discussed.