SEEKING VOLUNTEERS
The A.J. Drexel Autism Institute is looking for families with young children who are willing to
participate in practice administrations of clinical measures. We are looking for families who
are willing to allow graduate students, clinicians, and research staff to practice administering
the following tests: ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), Mullen Scales of Early
Development, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, 2nd Edition. Each test takes between 1 and
2 hours. Families who volunteer will be compensated with $10 per measure.
WHO: Testing will be conducted by a student, clinician, or research staff member learning to
administer the instrument.
WHAT:
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The evaluation includes testing to examine cognitive, language, play, and social
behaviors.
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One or more members of the team will test and observe your child using toys.
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Others will talk with you about your child.
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We will all be in the same room. You will be able to see and interact with your child.
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You and your child can take as many breaks as needed.
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We will video record all sessions. All recordings are kept private. We only share
recordings with other members of the research team. Families will not be able to keep
a copy of video footage.
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After the supervisor/trainer reviews the session, they will decide if the administration
was accurate. Results will be provided only for cases determined to have accurate
administration; if the administration had errors, we are not able to interpret the results.
If this happens, you and your child can participate again with another trainee after two
weeks.
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A written report will not be provided but we will set a time to discuss results in person
or by phone.
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Please note that results from one or more instruments are not the same thing as a
clinical evaluation, which incorporates many other aspects of a psychological
assessment. Your participation in this training will not affect your child’s performance
if these tests are done as part of a clinical assessment in the future.
WHEN: We will schedule the evaluation at a time that is convenient for your family.
WHERE: The appointment will take place at Drexel University or in our mobile assessment
unit. This is a van set up like our clinic.
If you would like to volunteer, please contact Katherine Weiner at 215-571-4824 or
DrexelEarlyDetection@drexel.edu.