Parent training in evidence-based practice for Autism

Dr Stephen Gallagher (Ulster) Despite the rising numbers of children being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and the fact that it is parents who carry the greatest burden of caring for their children, there has been little investment in effective parent training. There is an urgent need for parents to learn practical skills that … Read more

Early intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Comparing international policies with developments in Northern Ireland

Prof Karola Dillenburger (QUB) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects about 2% of school children (approximately 5000 in Northern Ireland; Megaw, 2013). ASD is a pervasive neurodevelopmental condition with problems in building social relationships and very restricted interests When these children enter the labour market, only 15% of them find employment; a great loss to them … Read more

People with Intellectual Disabilities: Promoting Health, Addressing Inequality

Dr Laurence Taggart and Dr Wendy Cousins (Ulster) There are approximately 32,600 people with intellectual disabilities (also known as ‘learning disabilities’) living in Northern Ireland. This is a higher proportion of our population than other regions in the United Kingdom. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006) recognises that persons … Read more

The impact of the Scottish Independence Referendum on Devolution and Governance in the United Kingdom

Dr Gerry Mooney and Dr Philip O’Sullivan (OU)  The issue of Scotland’s constitutional status is often mistakenly believed to be an issue that pertains to Scotland alone. However, with the result of the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum only very recently behind us, the consequences for the other countries that make up the United Kingdom – … Read more

Understanding differential educational achievement within and between areas of multiple deprivation in Northern Ireland: a case study approach

Prof Ruth Leitch (QUB) This presentation presents the findings of the ‘ILiAD’ research study (Investigating Links in Achievement and Deprivation), a 3-year study funded by the Office of First Minister and the deputy First Minister, which will finish in March 2015. The study aims to understand the reasons for 2 differential educational achievement within and … Read more

Language made fun: Supporting disadvantaged children in their English language development

Dr Raffaella Folli, Dr Christina Sevdali, Dr Catrin Rhys, Dr Jacopo Romoli and Prof Alison Henry (Ulster) In linguistically diverse societies, language issues are recognised to mediate social inclusion and hence be significant for social inclusion policies. More specifically, failure to support the language needs of newcomer pupils can lead to social exclusion and underachievement … Read more