Q&A: Ellen Graham, New England Center for Children
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Ellen Graham is the assistant director of Graduate Studies at the New England Center for Children (NECC), an autism education and research center in Southborough. She earned a master’s degree and school psychologist credentials from Tufts University.
Q: Why did you decide to pursue a career in this field?
A: Right out of college, I took a position as a teacher at NECC and worked with teenagers with autism spectrum disorders. From that point, I was hooked on the personalities of kids who I taught, on the systematic and scientific nature of the educational interventions for the students, on the team-based teaching system at NECC, and on the professional relationships that I had developed at the school.
Q: How has interest in graduate autism education programs changed in recent years?
A: With the increase in the awareness and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders, and the need for experienced professionals in the field, there has been an increase in the demand for graduate programs in special education and applied behavior analysis, such as those offered at NECC.
Q: What do you think draws students to this field?
A: There are several factors; a desire to work with and help others, an interest in the science of behavior, and an interest in the education of children.
Q: What are the most exciting developments in autism intervention and research?
A: I think one of the most exciting developments in intervention for people with autism and other disabilities is the use of personal technology devices such as tablets, smart phones and other personal devices which help our students to communicate and learn. For non-verbal students, these devices have become their voices. Educators can also use technology in the classroom to teach skills and support curriculum development.
This interview was edited for length and content by Emily Micucci.
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