Can some one give me a little synopsis as to what these methods are based on...
TEACCH is a research and evidence based method for working with
children and adults with autism. It revolves around "respecting the culture
of autism" and trying to work with the autistic behaviors rather than cure
them. It helps the children to be able to grow up and contribute to society
with job skills. The approach is an all around approach which works on
communication and behavior, simultaneously with academics and social
skills.
I teach in a "Structured Teaching Model" classroom which is TEACCH
based. The Structured Teaching Model is a highly structured classroom in
which every second of the children's time is structured. They know
exactly what to expect and their routine never changes. This does not
mean that we can't "add things into their schedule," it just means that
they know that whatever is on the schedule, they will be doing. The daily
schedule is a huge part of TEACCH. I can add things to the schedule
because they expect that part of their routine is to check the schedule to
see what is next. My classroom is highly organized and very clearly
defined. Play areas are far from the work areas. The kids use their
schedules to direct them to each location.
The visuals, communication systems, work systems, and other
components of TEACCH have turned my chaotic classroom into a
structured, predictable, successful classroom for all of my students. They
like the method just as much as I do, because it makes them feel
empowered in their own environment. A lot of it is visually organizing
their work, environments, etc for them.
Not all of my students have Autism. The methodology works great with
children with other disabilities as well. I have students with ADHD, ODD,
Emotional Disturbance, MR, etc. The kids know what is expected of them.
Regular Ed teachers come into the classroom and are often very surprised
and impressed with how smoothly the classroom runs. It runs itself! Some
teachers even joke that we are better behaved than a regular ed class. I
could leave the room and they would know exactly what to do, where to
be, and what to get done. I have nothing but good things to say about
TEACCH and it's success in my classroom.
Another website that I like for TEACCH ideas is http://www.tasksgalore.com/
teacherintx, I am also from Texas, and incorporate TEACCH principles into my classroom routines and materials. However, I do not have formal training in the method, and was wondering if you knew of any training close to Texas? Thanks for sharing about your class!
Nicole
Free Autism Resources and Printable Activities for Parents and Teachers! ~ http://www.PositivelyAutism.com/
IDEA is NOT a method. It's FEDERAL special education law. It applies in ALL 50 STATES, though each state must have its OWN regulations, too. State regulation can give MORE rights, but not less, so check your own state's regulations thru your state education department. To see more about IDEA, go to www.wrightslaw.com and search IDEA 2004.
TEACHH is a teaching method often used with ASD kids. It is not ABA, though it's a widely used and fairly respected method. You can google more on it.
Here is some more information on IDEA from the U.S. Department of Education:
http://idea.ed.gov/explore/search
Here is the link to the TEACCH website: