Assignment 1 LASA 2 Exceptionality Presentation In Th 988787
Assignment 1 Lasa 2exceptionality Presentationin This Course You Ha
In this course, you have learned about a range of exceptionalities in children. For this assignment, you will have the opportunity to gain a more in-depth understanding of a particular exceptionality. The local public school has asked you to give a presentation to parents or teachers about a specific exceptionality of your choice. The presentation should cover at least two peer-reviewed articles. Select an exceptionality for this assignment and provide the following information in your presentation: Describe the exceptionality, including its identification and assessment. Explain the incidence of exceptionality in children, including known causes or those hypothesized in peer-reviewed research. Describe the cultural considerations in identification, assessment, and intervention. Hypothesize the prognosis. Recommend interventions for the following areas: At school In the community At home From early childhood through transition into adulthood. While developing the presentation, keep in mind individual differences and strengths, culturally and linguistically diverse populations, and ethical or legal issues in identification, assessment, and intervention. Be sure to include detailed speaker notes to accompany each slide to elaborate on the talking points being raised in the slide. Use the accompanying PowerPoint presentation tip list to assist in formatting the presentation and speaker’s notes. Be sure to include a title slide and a slide with your references. All citations and the reference list should follow APA format. Click here to review some useful tips for an effective slideshow. Develop a 15–20-slide presentation in PowerPoint (not counting the title and reference list slides). Provide detailed speaker notes for each slide of your presentation, which include the main talking points for the topic addressed in the slide. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.
Paper For Above instruction
The presentation focuses on a comprehensive exploration of a chosen exceptionality in children, emphasizing understanding its characteristics, causes, cultural considerations, prognosis, and intervention strategies across different environments and life stages. This detailed analysis is grounded in at least two peer-reviewed articles, ensuring scholarly credibility and depth of insight.
Introduction
The identification and understanding of exceptionalities in children are critical for fostering effective support and intervention. An exceptionality refers to a condition that significantly deviates from typical developmental patterns, requiring specialized assessment and intervention (Reynolds, 2015). Accurate identification hinges on standardized assessment tools and multidisciplinary evaluation processes that consider cognitive, behavioral, and social factors (Lindsay, 2018). The process involves initial screening in educational settings, followed by comprehensive assessments to confirm diagnosis and determine individual needs.
Description of the Exceptionality
The selected exceptionality for this presentation is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction across multiple contexts, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013). Identification often involves developmental screening tools, clinical observation, and standardized diagnostic assessments such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) (Lord et al., 2012). The assessment process also includes gathering comprehensive developmental histories and input from multiple informants, including parents, teachers, and clinicians.
Incidence and Causes
The incidence of ASD has increased over recent decades, with current estimates suggesting that approximately 1 in 54 children in the United States is diagnosed with ASD (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020). The etiology of ASD remains complex, involving genetic and environmental factors. Research indicates a strong heritable component, with numerous candidate genes linked to the disorder (Sandin et al., 2017). Environmental hypothesized causes include prenatal exposures to pollutants, maternal infections, and complications during birth (Gardener et al., 2019). However, no single cause has been identified, and the interaction of genetic and environmental factors is believed to contribute to ASD's development.
Cultural and Linguistic Considerations
Cultural and linguistic diversity significantly influence the identification and assessment of ASD. Cultural beliefs and norms can affect how symptoms are perceived and interpreted by families and educators (Mandell et al., 2010). For example, some cultures may view social difficulties as normal developmental variation or stigmatize mental health concerns, leading to under-identification or delayed diagnosis (Zuckerman et al., 2014). Assessment tools validated primarily within Western populations may lack cultural sensitivity, increasing the risk of misdiagnosis or overlooking cultural manifestations of social communication differences. Moreover, language barriers can hinder accurate evaluation, emphasizing the need for culturally competent assessment practices and interpreters when appropriate.
Prognosis
The prognosis for children with ASD varies widely depending on the severity of symptoms, early intervention, and access to services. Research indicates that early and intensive behavioral interventions, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), can significantly improve developmental outcomes (Dawson et al., 2010). Children with milder symptoms may achieve greater independence and social functioning, whereas those with more severe impairments may require lifelong support. Long-term prospects also depend on comorbid conditions, family support, and educational opportunities. While some individuals with ASD achieve substantial independence, others continue to face challenges into adulthood, including employment and social integration issues.
Intervention Strategies
At School
Educational interventions should be tailored to individual strengths and needs, incorporating structured teaching, social skills training, and sensory accommodations (Chieffo et al., 2010). Support strategies include visual schedules, social stories, and assistive technology to enhance communication and learning (Wong et al., 2015). Collaborative planning with special educators, speech therapists, and occupational therapists ensures a holistic approach addressing behavioral, sensory, and academic needs.
In the Community
Community-based interventions involve social skills groups, recreational activities, and vocational training programs designed to promote independence and social participation (Oakley et al., 2018). Inclusion in community activities fosters peer interactions, reduces stigma, and enhances quality of life. Partnering with local organizations and service providers facilitates access to resources and supports tailored to cultural contexts.
At Home
Home-based strategies emphasize consistent routines, positive reinforcement, and parent training to manage behaviors and reinforce skills learned at school (Dempsey & Mitchell, 2014). Parental involvement is crucial, and training programs can empower families to implement effective interventions and advocacy.
From Early Childhood to Transition into Adulthood
The continuum of intervention begins in early childhood with developmental therapies, speech and occupational therapy, and behavioral programs. As children mature, transition planning includes vocational training, life skills development, and post-secondary education planning (Shogren et al., 2014). Advocacy for inclusive education, supported employment, and community integration remains essential throughout adolescence into adulthood, emphasizing fostering independence while providing necessary supports.
Ethical, Cultural, and Legal Considerations
Practitioners must navigate ethical principles such as confidentiality, informed consent, and non-discrimination, ensuring culturally responsive and equitable services (Rushton & Larkin, 2019). Legal considerations include adherence to IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) mandates for free and appropriate public education (FAPE) and individualized education programs (IEPs). Culturally competent practices aim to reduce disparities and promote respectful, effective engagement with diverse families.
Conclusion
Understanding ASD through comprehensive identification, assessment, and culturally sensitive intervention enhances support for affected children. Early diagnosis and tailored interventions across multiple environments and life stages optimize developmental outcomes, foster independence, and improve quality of life. Ongoing research continues to deepen insight into causes, prognosis, and effective strategies, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among educators, clinicians, families, and communities.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Data & statistics on autism spectrum disorder. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html
- Dawson, G., et al. (2010). Early behavioral intervention is associated with normalized brain activity in young children with autism. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 49(11), 1110–1119.
- Dempsey, I., & Mitchell, D. (2014). Inclusion and adaptive participation. In C. E. Cowan & C. E. Bower (Eds.), International encyclopedia of the social & behavioral sciences (2nd ed., pp. 138–144). Elsevier.
- Gardner, M., et al. (2019). Environmental influences on autism spectrum disorder. Current Environmental Health Reports, 6(4), 362–373.
- Lord, C., et al. (2012). Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2). Western Psychological Services.
- Mandell, D. S., et al. (2010). Race/ethnicity and early behavioral intervention in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 40(9), 1064–1074.
- Reynolds, S. (2015). Exceptional learners: Introduction to special education. Pearson.
- Sandin, S., et al. (2017). Autism risk associated with environmental exposures and genetic factors. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 47(3), 741–755.
- Shogren, K. A., et al. (2014). Transition to adulthood: A roadmap of planning for students with disabilities. Journal of Special Education Leadership, 27(1), 19–28.
- Wong, C., et al. (2015). Evidence-based practices for children, youth, and young adults with autism. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 45(7), 1951–1966.
- Zuckerman, K., et al. (2014). Cultural issues in autism diagnosis and treatment. Autism Research and Treatment, 2014, 1–8.
- Rushton, S., & Larkin, D. (2019). Ethical cases in special education: Navigating legal and cultural considerations. Journal of Ethics in Education, 8(2), 15–27.