This introductory course fulfills part of the requirements for those wishing to obtain an ASD Endorsement from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. It is designed to provide students with an overview of characteristics and learning traits, classification systems, assessment strategies/issues, approaches, and interventions related to individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Special emphasis is placed on collaboration, adapting instruction and use of evidence based interventions. Specific attention will be devoted to review of the Comprehensive Autism Assessment Planning System and principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. Field experiences are embedded in this course.