About
Project Work
Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules (AFIRM)
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 continued to provide up-to-date EBP modules and resources based on the 2020 NCAEP EBP Report with the assistance of CAPTAIN of Marin County Office of Education from 2021-2022.
AFIRM for Paraprofessionals
AFIRM for Paras was a professional development initiative funded the Office of Special Education Programs in the US Department of Education from 2017-2021 aimed at equipping paraeducators with the skills and knowledge to effectively implement evidence-based practices (EBPs) with elementary school students on the spectrum. AFIRM for Paras is currently piloting a test study of this professional development which is also funded the Office of Special Education Programs in the US Department of Education from 2023-2025.
AFIRM for Toddlers
AFIRM for Toddlers are a set a of modules developed in collaboration with the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center for early interventionists (EI) working with toddlers, families, and early care providers. AFIRM for Toddlers is currently funded (2023-2025) by Foundation for Child Development to develop a family focused module to support them with incorporating EBPs into the daily routines of toddlers on the spectrum.
Project Staff
Samuel L. Odom, Ph.D.
Co-Director
Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill
Ann Sam, Ph.D.
Co-Director
Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill
Victoria Waters, M.Ed.
Technical Assistance Specialist
Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, UNC-Chapel Hill