Field experiences are directly tied to each of the four autism spectrum courses. They are designed to give candidates a perspective of the lifelong learning and development of students with autism from early diagnosis through adulthood while centering on the school age years. They explicitly support opportunities to apply theoretical constructs, conduct and interpret assessments, and design and implement curriculum and instructional practices within a variety of field contexts.

Candidates conduct 100 hours of fieldwork over the course of two semesters.

Candidates who are not working with the population will be supported in partner sites.

Field experiences are coordinated and supervised by project faculty and staff, who serve as mentors to candidates.

• Observe and participate in diagnostic or early assessment of young child

• Observe and participate in diverse elementary and secondary class settings (special day class, inclusive)

• Conduct environmental/ecological inventory and adapt environment
• Design and implement instructional plan (one-to-one, small group)

• Conduct assessments focused on socialization, communication, play, imagination
• Design and implement intervention with typical peers drawing on assessments

• Conduct transition plan for secondary student
• Observe and support student with family across home, school, community