GU students learn about educating students with autism

Published: May 03, 2024

Author: Dave Bell

Greenville University School of Education students recently observed programs designed to help individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during a tour of the Illinois Center for Autism in Fairview Heights.

The center, which has been in existence since 1977, serves clients from age 3 through adulthood in a 12-county area of southwest Illinois. Its stated goal is to “educate and serve children and adults with autism to help them achieve their highest level of independence in their home, school, and community.”

While touring the center, GU special education majors saw teaching materials and adaptive tools being used in classrooms. They also observed specialized classroom environments designed to engage students with ASD. Additionally, the GU students heard presentations from the center’s therapists and educators about behavioral interventions, sensory processing challenges, and social skills development.

“This field trip to the Illinois Center for Autism allowed us to observe the specialized teaching materials and adaptive tools that are used to help the students,” said Vanessa Compton, a GU junior majoring in special education and elementary education. “The presentations I heard and the tools I saw in use will impact my teaching practices in the future.”

The trip to the Illinois Center for Autism was made possible through the experiential learning fund, which is supported by Greenville University’s Rise Up campaign.