Assessment -
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders will be prepared to use valid and reliable assessment practices to minimize bias.

• Determine unbiased assessments that align with the characteristics of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC2, MC5]
• Analyze assessments for use in data collection and ongoing evaluation. [MC2]
• Analyze transition assessment data to make informed instructional decisions. [MC2]
• Describe considerations related to identifying autism spectrum disorder. [MC1]
• Describe characteristics and features of autism spectrum disorder, including comparison to other developmental disabilities. [MC1]
• Using assessment data, communicate a profile of individual needs with various stakeholders. [MC1, MC2, MC4]

Curricular Content Knowledge -
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders will be prepared to use their knowledge of general and specialized curricula to improve supports at the classroom, school, community, and system level.

• Evaluate activities to improve supports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC2]

Programs, Services, and Outcomes -
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders will be prepared to facilitate continuous improvement of general and special education supports at the classroom, school, and system level for individuals with exceptionalities.

• Apply inclusive principles to inform the development and improvement of supports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC3, MC5]
• Apply knowledge of theories and evidence-based practices to advocate for supports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC2, MC5]
• Create individualized and intensive programming to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder in an inclusive classroom. [MC2, MC4]
• Advocate for policies and practices that improve supports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC1, MC2, MC4, MC5]
• Organize evidence-based strategies and activities that address individual differences and needs when developing independent living skills. [MC4]
• Apply understanding of diversity and individual learning differences to inform the development of comprehensive curricula for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC2, MC3, MC5]

Research and Inquiry -
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders will be prepared to conduct, evaluate, and use inquiry to guide professional practice and engage in lifelong learning.

• Evaluate research to identify and inform effective practices. [MC2]
• Foster an inquiry-based research environment that is supportive of continuous instructional improvement. [MC4]
• Establish goals for professional growth and development. [MC4]

Leadership and Policy -
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorder will be prepared to provide leadership to formulate goals, set and meet high professional expectations, advocate for effective policies and evidence-based practices, and create positive and productive work environments.

• Advocate for the allocation of appropriate resources for the preparation and professional development of all personnel who serve individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC1, MC4]
• Actively engage in the preparation and induction of prospective special educators. [MC4}
• Promote respect for all individuals and their families. [MC3, MC4, MC5]
• Model high professional expectations and ethical practice to create supportive environments for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
• Propose professional development focusing on effective and ethical practice at all organizational levels. [MC1, MC4, MC5]

Professional and Ethical Practice -
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders will be prepared to use foundational knowledge of the field and professional ethical principles and practice standards to inform special education practice, advance the profession, and perform leadership responsibilities to promote the success of professional colleagues and individuals with exceptionalities.

• Describe ethical considerations for working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their service providers. [MC5]
• Describe ways to modify verbal and nonverbal communication and instructional behavior to meet the needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC1]
• Use instructional and assistive technologies to improve supports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC2, MC5]
• Model challenging expectations, respect, and ethical practice for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC4, MC5]
• Promote the advancement of the profession. [MC4, MC5]

Collaboration -
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders will be prepared to collaborate with stakeholders to improve supports for individuals with exceptionalities and their families.

• Lead collaboration with all stakeholders to improve supports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC1, MC4]
• Use culturally responsive practices to enhance collaboration. [MC3, MC5]
• Apply knowledge of professional literature and resources to improve collaborative practices when working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other stakeholders. [MC1, MC2]
• Collaborate to promote understanding, resolve conflicts, and build consensus for improving supports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [MC1, MC3]