Supporting individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism, as well as their caregivers and service providers, is central to the work of FPG. Understanding developmental trajectories and the impact of a developmental disability on the individual, family, and broader community informs both theory and practice. High-quality intervention across the age range can ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families fully participate in their community in ways that are meaningful to them. FPG investigators have identified central features of high-quality intervention, such as family-focused programming, early childhood inclusion, and the use of identified evidence-based practices. They lead the field in translating scientific knowledge into practical information for teachers and service providers, and actively join their colleagues from implementation science in promoting adoption and use of effective intervention practices in schools, homes, and community settings.
Featured FPG News Story
The Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules (AFIRM) project recently released a new module, Selecting an Evidence-Based Practice, and an accompanying Individualized Education Program (IEP) to Evidence-based Practice (EBP) tool. This new AFIRM module describes the process for selecting an evidence-based practice to use with autistic learners.
Featured Publication
Eye-gaze assistive technology offers children with severe motor and communication difficulties the opportunity to access and control a computer through eye movements. FPG’s Samuel Odom, PhD, recently contributed to a study that examined the impact of eye-gaze assistive technology intervention on technology usability among children with complex needs in Taiwan.
Featured Person
Samuel Odom, PhD, is a senior research scientist at the UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute and research professor emeritus in the UNC School of Education. His research has addressed topics related to early childhood inclusion and preschool readiness and much of his current research focuses on autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
