Incorporate cool down or relaxation activities into the school day (e.g., yoga, deep breathing).

This website is dedicated to promoting inclusive schooling and exploring positive ways of supporting students with autism and other disabilities. Most of my work involves collaborating with schools to create environments, lessons, and experiences that are inclusive, respectful, and accessible for all learners.

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3 Questions: Lights! Camera! Autism! Using Video Technology to Enhance Lives

Posted on May 07, 2012 in Autism, News

I have been talking about this fantastic book in many of my workshops, so I thought it was time to share more information about it on the blog. Read on to hear from the authors and to learn why this book is so useful and so unique.

“Lights! Camera! Autism! Using Video Technology to Enhance Lives”

Kate McGinnity, Sharon Hammer & Lisa Ladson, CBR Press, 2011

  1. There are a few books on the market now about video modeling. What is different about this book?

    We address the “how” around using video technology which we define broadly, to include iPads and apps, Smartboards, handheld electronic devices, power point, etc. Many people seemed to be using video technology to support teaching skills, however we went beyond that into areas that enhance people’s lives and promote competence, such as creating personal histories, supporting neurological glitches/brain freeze, creating resumes for adults. Our book comes from a place of respect for individuals on the autism spectrum. Whenever possible, we join with them to understand and collaborate around the challenges of their autism.

  2. You have all been using video modeling for years. What are some things that have surprised you about video modeling? Have you ever seen unexpected outcomes or found benefits beyond those you sought?

    We are constantly surprised by the rate of acquisition of new behaviors when using video modeling. Sometimes, behaviors that have been addressed for years can be taught in only a few viewings of a target video. We’ve also found to our great delight, that the use of video technology seems to be particularly friendly to autism’s neurology, and that some of the difficulties that folks might encounter around flexibility, generalization, need for repetition in learning, etc. are less heightened and even, non existent within the realm of video technology.

  3. When folks buy the book, they also get a great DVD with some sample videos. Can you tell us a bit about this “bonus” material?

    The “bonus” material is meant to illustrate just how easy this technology can be to use. It shows that we are not professional camera people or expert editors. The DVD is also meant to be a model itself. For the majority of learners (even teachers) it helps to have someone show you what to do, instead of just reading about it!

    4. Comments

    1. From Patrick on 10 May 2012

      Love this book!!!

    2. From Ellen on 12 Nov 2015

      I have the first book and saw a wonderful presentation a few years ago in Green Bay by at least one of the authors. Am always amazed I can’t find more helpful canned youtubes on helpful skills. Currently seeking one on brushing long hair for daughter. Has anyone started a database of these? It could be useful to so many.