• Initiative supports KHDA’s Inclusive Education Policy Framework
• Interactive session educates teachers, parents on importance of motivation, inclusive learning environment for students with learning differences

Dubai-UAE: 25 January, 2018 – In response to the Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework, introduced by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Lexicon Reading Center hosted a workshop on Individualized Educational Programs’ (IEPs) Goals and Motivation with US-based behavioral analysts Mari Ueda-Tao and Sarah Jocson.

Held on January 22 at Cassells Al Barsha Hotel, the interactive session highlighted the significance of motivating and setting goals for students within the autism spectrum. Organized in collaboration with Applied Behavior Consultants (ABC), a globally renowned institute dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities and learning disorders, the workshop drew the participation of 200 teachers and parents from across the UAE.

Attendees discussed the importance of individualized educational programs (IEPs) and shaping the least restrictive environment (LRE) for children with learning differences. Furthermore, they learnt how to assess stimuli that can trigger challenging behavior and examined ways of handling the situation through effective goal implementation.

Dr Rudolf Stockling, Clinical Director and Head of the Assessment Unit at Lexicon Reading Center, said: “Through leveraging KHDA’s Inclusive Education Policy Framework, the workshop aimed to educate teachers and parents on the positive effect of motivation on children with autism. The session explored innovative and viable strategies for creating a conducive learning environment, in addition to examining the correlation between motivation and results.”

Mari Ueda-Tao is Chief Clinical Officer at ABC with centers in Bahrain, Singapore and Europe, and a national-level member of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Sarah Jocson is Senior Behavior Analyst at ABC with over 15 years of experience in consulting children and adults with pervasive developmental disorders.

With the workshop on motivation, Lexicon Reading Center is reinforcing its commitment to implementing the inclusion framework introduced by KHDA across schools in the country. In October 2017, Lexicon Reading Center concluded a four-week training program on behavior management for 120 shadow teachers and teaching assistants from eight schools in Dubai.