April is National Autism Awareness Month, and we’d like to acknowledge the many educators who are using technology to open up the lines of communication and increase engagement for students with autism.

And there are so many successes to celebrate – whether its teachers using SMART products to help students experience greater independence completing tasks,  improve their social interactions or express their feelings.

Research is also showing the impact of technology, like interactive whiteboards, on supporting and engaging students with autism. For instance, a 2007 research project, conducted at Kettering City Schools of Ohio, showed that after one school year of language arts instruction with a SMART Board interactive whiteboard, students with autism demonstrated more accurate and appropriate responses to questions, and increased participation and instruction.

Autism diagnoses continues to rise

It’s becoming more critical than ever to create and sustain learning environments that are engaging and the least restrictive, as the incidence of autism continues to rise.

A report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at the end of March says that 1 in 88 U.S children have been diagnosed with autism. This represents a jump from 2009 when the CDC estimated that 1 in 110 children had been diagnosed with autism.

SMART products and students with autism

Because SMART products help support engaging learning environments, educators are seeing successes in creating inclusive learning environments, where all students, including those with special needs can access and take part in learning.

Our resources for special education, such as webinars, research and success stories, can show you how our products support effective whole-class, small group and individual learning, and encourage all students to actively participate in lessons.

And we hope you continue to stop by the EDCompass blog throughout April, as we share success stories and resources that can inspire you and help you engage your students with autism and other special needs.