AFIRM
Autism Focused Intervention Resources & Modules
Web Site Redesign
We’ve redesigned and reorganized the AFIRM website to enhance your learning experience! As part of this update, a login or account is no longer required to access our resources. All content is now freely available. Additionally, some links may have changed. Please update any bookmarks or saved links accordingly.
The original Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules (AFIRM) was funded by the Office of Special Education Programs in the US Department of Education as a subcontract of the IRIS Center from 2014-2016 as an extension of the National Professional Development Center (NPDC) on Autism.
During the 2-year funding period, AFIRM developed 27 evidence-based practice (EBP) modules and related resources based on the 2014 NPDC EBP Report. AFIRM continues to provide up-to-date EBP modules and resources based on the 2020 NCAEP EBP Report, as well as modules and resources designed specifically for paraeducators, early interventionists, and caregivers who served children and youth on the spectrum.
Modules
AFIRM Modules are designed to help you learn the step-by-step process of planning for, using, and monitoring an evidence-based practice (EBP) with learners on the spectrum from birth to 22 years of age.
What will I learn in a module?
Key components of an EBP including various approaches that can be used with learners on the spectrum
Behaviors and skills that can be addressed using the practice
A step-by-step process for applying the practice
Specific resources that you can download and customize for your own use
How will I learn?
Each AFIRM module was developed based on Kemp’s Instructional Design Model and focuses on an EBP for learners on the spectrum which has a four-lesson structure that includes engaging case examples, videos, and interactive assessments.
The structure was developed to facilitate:
- learning basic information about the EBP
- applying the EBP in activity-based scenarios that promote real-world application.
Timely Toolkits
The resources included in our Timely Toolkits are designed to support autistic individuals, their caregivers, and related professionals as they navigate through specific global and/or local events that may disrupt or impact routines.
Earn Professional Development Credits
AFIRM offers CEUs through the Friday Center for Continuing Education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Please note that these CEUs are based on contact hours and are not considered academic credit.
