AFIRM 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. Supplemental materials and handouts are available for download.

Download an overview of the Components of AFIRM to learn about modules, resources, and professional development options.

Visit the Learn with AFIRM section to find out more.

To learn more about the updated EBPs, check out the National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice website.

Introduction to Autism

Introduction to Autism

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This module contains information about the characteristics of autism, including social communication, repetitive behaviors, thinking and learning, and how to support learners.

Time to complete:
This module will take approximately 2 - 3 hours to complete.

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Selecting an Evidence-Based Practice

Selecting an EBP

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This module describes the process for identifying a learner's goal, identifying potential EBPs based on research, and considering key information to select an EBP to use with a learner.

Time to complete:
This module will take approximately 1 - 2 hours to complete.

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AFIRM for Paraprofessionals: Simulated E-Learning

These simulated learning modules include brief overviews, video examples, and activity-based scenarios to learn foundational EBPs.

Reinforcement: Introduction & Practice
Prompting: Introduction & Practice
Supporting Peer Interactions: Introduction & Practice
Time Delay: Introduction & Practice
Visual Cues: Introduction & Practice

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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 working with toddlers, families, and early care providers.

AFIRM for Toddlers Introduction
Behavior Supports for Toddlers
Naturalistic Interventions in the Child Care Setting
Parent-Implemented Interventions in the Home Setting
Reinforcement
Prompting
Visual Supports

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Available Evidence-Based Practice Modules

The National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice (NCAEP) identified 28 EBPs based upon a systematic review. The EBP modules are designed to help you learn the step-by-step process for planning for, using, and monitoring an EBP with learners with autism from birth to 22 years of age.

Augmentative & Alternative Communication
Antecedent-Based Interventions
Ayres Sensory Integration®
Behavioral Momentum Intervention
Cognitive Behavioral Intervention
Direct Instruction
Differential Reinforcement
Discrete Trial Training
Exercise
Extinction
Functional Behavioral Assessment
Functional Communication Training
Modeling
Music-Mediated Intervention

Naturalistic Intervention
Peer-Mediated Instruction & Intervention
Parent-Implemented Intervention
Prompting
Reinforcement
Response Interruption/ Redirection
Self-Management
Social Narratives
Social Skills Training
Task Analysis
Technology-Aided Instruction & Intervention
Time Delay
Video Modeling
Visual Supports

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Available Supplemental Modules

Several EBPs identified in the previous review (Wong et al., 2014) were recategorized or reclassified in the most recent review by the National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence & Practice (see Steinbrenner et al., 2020, p. 30 for details). The four modules below will remain available for AFIRM users as supplemental materials:

Picture Exchange Communication System
Pivotal Response Training
Scripting
Structured Play Groups

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