This study is designed to provide long-term follow-up data for students who have exited Aspect’s satellite classes. The purpose is to ascertain if placement accessed on transition from satellite classes is maintained in the long term, and to provide some comprehensive, descriptive data concerning representative cases. Findings will be used to evaluate transition procedures and develop information packages.

This project is funded by a grant from Gresham Partners. The satellite class follow-up study commenced in July 2005 with a review of the relevant research literature and formal research proposal completed by the end of the year. Elaine Keane has been seconded from the Vern Barnett School to undertake the project, with consultative support from Dr. Jacqui Roberts of Sydney University and Dr. Mark Carter from Macquarie University. The aims of the research are to:

• Identify  placement outcomes for students who have exited the classes over a ten year period.
• Evaluate outcomes for a smaller group of students in terms of school placement, level of support and quality of life.
• Explore the impact of satellite class placement in terms of both teaching approaches and provision of adaptive supports.

The study will provide data that indicates if successful placement on transition from satellite classes in maintained in the long term and highlight pertinent factors for successful or otherwise transitions for students with autism.

Findings will assist in developing transition procedures from Aspect services, development of information packages for receiving schools and reveal considerations for follow-up support. Results will also yield recommendations that lead to more comprehensive outcomes research investigating satellite class operation and educational practice in a long-term study of student progress. These are significant considerations, as Aspect the Aspect satellite class program continues to develop and expand.

Archival searches for the project and survey design have been completed in early 2006 and a survey questionnaire is being sent to families of all students who transitioned from Aspect satellite class during a ten year period between 1993 and 2002. The aim is to ascertain if placement on exit is maintained long term. The second part of the research consists of  a multiple-case study to provide comprehensive, qualitative data for representative numbers of students, investigating  educational history, current functioning and achievements, learning support and quality of life. The first part of the research will be completed in August 2006 and the second part in early 2008.

Should you wish to comment on this research project, Aspect welcomes feedback. Please direct comments or questions to:

Dr. Trevor Clark, Director, Education & Research
	Phone:	02 8868 8500
	Fax:	02 9896 5266
	E-mail:	Dr Trevor Clark
	Post:	Dr. Trevor Clark Aspect Centre for Western Sydney P.O. Box 770 Seven Hills NSW 1730