MSUM Offers Autism Spectrum Disorder Seminar
MSUM will hold a seminar on autism spectrum disorders entitled, “Under the Umbrella: Meeting the Needs of Students with ASD” Tuesday and Wednesday, June 16-17. The seminar may be taken for credit or non-credit. The cost for the conference is $175, which includes materials, lunch and breaks. A few partial scholarships are available to parents of children with ASD. The cost for optional CEUs is $10, or the optional one credit is $95 for undergraduate or $115 for graduate credit.
Autism spectrum disorders are developmental disabilities that impair social interaction and communication and cause a person to exhibit unusual behaviors and interests. Studies during the past decade have indicated an increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism. Approximately 1 in 150 children in the United States have an autism spectrum disorder, according to the Centers for Disease Control, which has resulted in educators and other human service professionals encountering more students on the spectrum. This conference will help professionals meet the needs of these students in the classroom and beyond.
The seminar will feature MSUM faculty and local professionals who work with ASD. Speakers include Catherine Yeager, Assessment & Therapy Associates; Marit Krogstad, West Fargo Public Schools; and Cathy Breedon, MeritCare. Camille Brandt, MSUM, is the conference coordinator. Topics will include an introduction to ASD, working with paraprofessionals, adolescent issues, transitions, assistive technology, classroom tips, and home, school and agency connections. A special showing of Autism the Musical is planned for Tuesday at 4 p.m.
For more information or a registration form go to www.mnstate.edu/continue, e-mail contstdy@mnstate.edu, or call 218-477-5862. Registration will be taken by Continuing Studies.