Since 2017, Monash SDS has been implementating the STAR and Links Program throughout the school. These programs combine evidence-based strategies which are being utilised by the school as a resource to teach the Victorian Curriculum.

The STAR Program teaches preschool and primary aged children with autism and other developmental disabilities, the critical skills identified by the National Research Council. The ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) instructional methods of discrete trial training, pivotal response training and teaching functional routines form the instructional base of this comprehensive program.

The STAR Program includes detailed lesson plans, teaching materials, data systems and a curriculum-based assessment for teaching in the six curricular areas of receptive language, expressive language, spontaneous language, functional routines, academics, and play & social skills.

The Links Program is an evidence-based, comprehensive, web-based curriculum to teach secondary aged students with autism and other developmental disabilities to be independent across school, community and vocational routines.  Links is designed to promote student independence in natural environments, preparing them for possible post-school options.

The Links system utilises a curriculum-based assessment to individualise Functional Routines for every student. The Links Discrete Trial lesson plans provide the tools necessary to teach both individual skills and independence in daily routines. These lessons are divided into five curricular areas which provide instructors with a comprehensive approach to instruction that addresses receptive and expressive communication, functional academics, and learning how to engage in diverse activities while demonstrating appropriate social behaviour.

For further information on the STAR / Links Program visit http://starautismsupport.com