Social Communication in Early Childhood Disorders

Development of infant and toddler cognitive, social, communication and language skills are explored through major theories, current research and application to disorders. Emphasis is placed on functional assessments and intervention for children with social communication disorders functioning at the prelinguistic and emerging language stages.

Current Research in Autism

Exploration of research theories related to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and the implications the disability has on an individual’s learning, behavior and ability to process information. Topics may include: diagnostic classification, the evaluation process, current theoretical models, intervention models, research on potential causes and treatments, provisions for service delivery and areas of impairment.

Seminar in Autism

Issues concerning the diagnosis and theories of autism. The development of social, communication/language, and cognitive skills in autism, as well as various therapeutic approaches.

Research Methods in Behavioral and Brain Sciences — Part I

This course focuses on applying, understanding, and interpreting various statistical techniques in a behavioral science context. Students learn the framework for hypothesis testing, basic descriptive (e.g., measures of central tendency, variability and shape) and inferential (e.g., z, t, correlation, ordinary least squares regression, and ANOVA) statistics. The course provides students with an understanding of the interrelationships among statistical techniques, and computer skills required for data analyses.