Parents and Educators Working as an Action Research Team

Abstract

This article introduces a new PhD participatory action research project. An outline of the contributions intended to be made by this study are highlighted and an overview of the research methodology is explained. A school based approach that encourages positive social behaviour of children with autism is the key component of the research, where parents and educators join forces to problem-solve behaviour issues in the home. The behaviour intervention approach that is used offers a practical and naturalistic way of teaching students appropriate behaviour. This article details the research model which includes parent and educator collaboration and is unique as it contributes ‘insider’ perspectives. This qualitative study allows an educator who has been diagnosed with high functioning autism and parents of children with autism an opportunity to voice their concerns, understandings and successes in regard to behaviour management.