Predicting Educational Placement for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders

• In Event: 49.084 - Autism Spectrum Disorders: Educational Placements and Supports

Abstract

As the number of students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) continues to rise, educational teams are increasingly tasked with making educational placement and services delivery for these students. While support for inclusive placements grows, many students with ASD continue to be placed in restrictive, segregated settings. The present study examines within- and across-state variables that predict educational placement outcomes for students with ASD in the U.S. Multiple linear regression was used to identify variables that predict placement, including prevalence of ASD, parent education, demographic variables, and disability density. Each of these predicts placement along the current continuum of special education placement settings. Implications for families, policy makers, and researchers are included.

Authors

• Jennifer Kurth, The University of Kansas

• Ann M. Mastergeorge, University of Arizona