Curricula for Learners with Autism Certificate of Completion

Learn the latest evidence-based applied behavioral analysis (ABA) strategies of discrete trial training, pivotal response training, and functional routines through a comprehensive grounding in the STAR and FACTER curriculum. The STAR and FACTER programs are widely used in schools throughout Oregon, Washington, and elsewhere. Content areas in the STAR program include expressive language, receptive language, spontaneous language, functional routines, pre-academic skills, and social interaction and play skills. The FACTER program is used to assess and teach students with developmental disabilities to be independent and addresses the student’s ability to perform typical everyday "routines" while incorporating essential "related skills" for living.

This certificate does not require an application in order to register for courses. However, students are required to complete the prerequisite course, SPED 410/510 Foundations for Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder, before taking other courses in the program. This course can be taken at the undergraduate (410) or graduate (510) level.

All courses in the certificate are offered during summer term. Courses are sequenced throughout the two summer sessions. It is strongly recommended that students follow the suggested course sequence as the content in each course is designed to build on the preceding one. 

Note: Completion of the series does not certify participants as users or trainers of the STAR or FACTER curriculum. This program is not endorsed or sponsored by Star Autism Support, Inc.

Program highlights

• Classroom applications: Apply course ideas, theories, and research so that instruction (content, process, and product) meets the needs of each student in your classroom
• Experienced instructors: Work and learn with qualified school personnel and PSU faculty who have researched and successfully implemented the STAR and FACTER curriculum emphasized in the program
• Collegial environment: Network with and support colleagues in a educational and respectful learning community

This certificate is designed for special educators, autism specialists, speech therapists, and others who want to increase their knowledge of the STAR and FACTER curriculum or who are working with children in classrooms that implement these programs.

Contact
Tracy Williams-Murphy
Program Manager
tracy.williamsmurphy@pdx.edu
503-725-8102