CAPSTAR

The Comprehensive Autism Program using Strategies and Techniques supported by Autism Research (CAPSTAR) includes components that research shows improves outcomes for young children, ages two to five, with autism spectrum disorders, including:

• Individualized instructional programs
• Curriculum designed specifically for children with autism
• Instruction at school and home
• Highly trained staff
• Partnerships with parents to embed interventions into home routines   

The model incorporates evidence-based instructional strategies including environmental structure, visual supports, discrete trial training, pivotal response training, and teaching within daily routines. Research to support each of these strategies was summarized by the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Who is participating in CAPSTAR?
Over 300 Oregon and Washington children with educational eligibility for autism, ages two to five, their families, and more than 80 teaching teams who serve children with autism.

How are participants selected?
School districts nominate classrooms. Classrooms are then randomly assigned to treatment. Half of the classrooms receive the CAPSTAR model, and the other half continue receiving their current program. Each classroom participates for one school year. In 2009 and 2010, 61 classrooms participated in the project. In 2011, approximately 20  additional classrooms will be selected to participate in the study.

If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Dr. Helen Young at youngh@pdx.edu 503-725-5207 or 1-800-547-8887 ext. 55207.

The U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences, is funding this project to study the efficacy of this program.

Learn more about the Institute of Education Sciences CAPSTAR grant.