Evaluating Knowledge and Strategy Retention Among School Personnel Trained to Support Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A 7-Year Review (2008–2014)

Abstract

The HANDS in Autism® Summer Training Program provides school personnel with intensive instruction in evidence-based practices (EBPs) for supporting students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This study evaluated the training’s effectiveness using the Assessment of Knowledge-Expanded (AoK-E®), a tool designed to measure educator knowledge in applying strategies related to classroom structure, communication, social skills, and behavior management. A total of 249 participants completed pre-training, post-training, and four-month follow-up assessments between 2008 and 2014. Results indicated statistically significant improvements in knowledge immediately after training, with sustained performance at follow-up. Participants demonstrated increased ability to identify and apply EBPs aligned with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles. These findings support the efficacy of the HANDS in Autism® training model in promoting short- and long-term retention of autism-specific strategies among educators. Future evaluation will expand to include additional measures of fidelity, satisfaction, and implementation outcomes to ensure continued program development.