Julia

Kaufman
SPED 843
Assessing Social Skills Deficits

Reflection

Assignment
The Assessing Social Skills Deficits Assignment of SPED 843 was an assignment that

required me to analyze a case study to determine the students social skills discrepancy and

create a plan to meet the social skills deficit. There were two parts to this assignment. The first

part required me to complete a discrepancy analysis for Bobby and a non-disabled student

regarding social skills. In addition to the discrepancy analysis form I completed a direct

observation social skills assessment for Bobby, interpreted the direct observation data, and based

on the analysis of the form and observation determined the best way to improve the students

social skills and social competence. The second part focused on using Boobys present levels

and IEP goals to determine a plan for improving Bobbys social skills. This plan includes

explicit instructional methods, social skill prompting, coaching methods, social problem solving

methods, peer-mediated strategies, and an evaluation plan for the intervention. The assignment

was required to be between 7-9 pages in length total.

Purpose
The purpose of this assignment was to increase my knowledge and skill in planning and

implementing effective behavior intervention based upon gathered data and knowledge of the

student. This assignment provided me with tools, including a discrepancy analysis form and

direct observation form, that I can use in the classroom when determining effective interventions

with students requiring social and behavioral supports. By thinking deeply about social skills

and social skills interventions we are prepared for future cases under our management.

Revision
Julia Kaufman
SPED 843
Assessing Social Skills Deficits
Based on my instructors feedback I edited my assignment for grammar and spelling

mistakes. I included information on how I would ensure that paraprofessionals understand

explicit interventions to ensure they are implemented with fidelity.

Professional Development

As a resource teacher, a large part of my job is teaching social skills and implementing

behavior interventions. This assignment gave me the tools to help target students deficits on my

caseload. This includes conducting observations, collecting baseline data, implementing

interventions, and determining the effectiveness of the interventions. Effective interventions are

essential for the success of the students on my caseload. Feedback from this assignment caused

me to view behaviors and social skill deficits through a different light, focusing on the

importance of knowing its not only what we teach, but also how we teach.