Temple and Rebecca
Dr. Temple Grandin addressed a crowd of 800 Parent Educators at the National Parents as Teachers Conference on November 8th. . Her presentation “The Way I See It, Part II” included a recurring, much welcomed theme of capturing the strengths of individuals with all abilities and drawing each person’s talents out by channeling his/her predominant learning styles. Additionally, Dr. Grandin shared thoughts of wisdom on numerous topics and answered questions from the audience. As she had at Lindenwood, Dr. Grandin received a standing ovation.
I had the pleasure of visiting with Temple, reflecting on her visit to Lindenwood University. Temple expressed surprise when I related the vast number of people who came to Lindenwood University to hear her speak, stating that she didn’t realize that her speech was live streamed in three other auditoriums. (About 2,500 people attended.) While sharing with her the impact of her visit last March, I thanked her for sparking interest in our graduate programs in autism, both the Early Interventions in Autism and Sensory Impairment and the K-12 Autism programs.
About rpan52
As a teaching professor who does research, I have an amazing opportunity to observe the work of early intervention professionals coaching families of young children making my textbooks come alive. My students are the beneficiaries even though they may not be by my side. For exemplary teaching at the university level to transpire, research and teaching cannot be separated. Professors involved in research witness this transformation in process and pass on to the classrooms of today and tomorrow. Contextual teaching, membership in professional organizations, and attending and presenting at national conferences allow me to pass the latest evidence-based interventions to my students.
I want to create more opportunities for interaction.
Prior to teaching at Lindenwood University, I worked for Special School District of St. Louis County with children of all abilities and their families for 20 years, and led professional development for 2500 special education teachers while earning my doctorate in Special Education at University of Missouri. I continue teaching online undergraduate and graduate special education methods courses. My research interest includes field testing The Family Planner as a "Do It Yourself Tool" and Android App.
Early Interventions 