The Effectiveness of a Professional Learning Program in Enhancing Knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Given the increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it is crucial to raise public awareness and understanding of autism. Education about autism helps create a more inclusive environment where individuals with ASD can thrive. This includes understanding their unique strengths, challenges, and needs, as well as promoting acceptance and accommodating their differences. This study examined the effectiveness of a professional learning program to improve participants’ knowledge about autism. The program covered topics about ASD and its characteristics, an overview of TEACCH, and autism planning matrix. Held over two weeks, the program included a three-day workshop, field observation, and a visit to a disability support unit, thus providing a combination of didactic training, field experience, and mentoring. Participants of the program were 15 psychology students in a university in Surabaya, Indonesia. Data were collected using a questionnaire administered before and after the program. A paired-samples t-test was conducted to compare participants’ knowledge of autism before and after the professional learning program. There was a significant difference in the scores before (M=59.5, SD=8.6) and after (M=77.3, SD=9.25) the program; t (14)=6.04, p<0.001, with a large effect size (Cohen’s d=1.56). These results suggested that the professional learning program was effective in increasing participants’ knowledge of autism. In the future, such programs may be offered to a broader range of participants to promote autism awareness and develop a more inclusive society.