AILA Framework Foundations

is a self-study continuing education course for speech-language pathologists, educators, and related professionals seeking an autism-affirming approach to language development. The course introduces the AILA framework, a structured model for supporting authentic communication through observation, hypothesis generation, and confirmation, while addressing the limitations of compliance-based approaches. Participants apply core values such as autonomy and authenticity to real-world scenarios using case-based examples. Earn 0.2 ASHA CEUs.

Course curriculum

    1. Introduction

    2. Setting the stage

    3. Share your experience

    1. Framework overview

    2. Reflect on values

    1. Discovery Stage

    1. Case study: Tom and the radiator - Part 1

    2. Case study: Tom and the radiator - Part 1 response

    3. Case study: Tom and the radiator - Part 2

    4. Case study: Tom and the radiator - Part 2 response

    5. Case study: Tom and the radiator - Part 3

    1. Development stage

    2. Development stages quiz

    1. Bringing it all together

    2. AILA Foundations Toolkit

About this course

  • $99.00
  • 16 lessons

Support real communication.

Move beyond compliance.

Enroll today

Learner Outcomes

By the end of this course, learners will

  • Differentiate between compliance-based approaches and autism-affirming approaches to language development.

  • Apply AILA values (e.g., autonomy, authenticity) to determine appropriate responses in clinical and educational scenarios.

  • Identify the stages of the AILA framework (observation, hypothesis, confirmation) and their purpose.

  • Determine appropriate next steps using the AILA framework in real-world communication scenarios.

Disclosures and Policies

Instructor Disclosures


Stephanie Izzi, PhD, CCC-SLP receives a salary from Access Speech DBA Autism Included. She is a board member of Orchid Montessori School, a 501c3 inclusive education program in Rhode Island. 


Sarah Hamel, CCC-SLP receives a salary from Access Speech DBA Autism Included.


Course Completion 


In order to successfully complete this course, learners must:

  • complete all course materials
  • receive a score of 80% or above on the course assessment
  • submit a course evaluation


Autism Included provides educational programs and services without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or neurotype. We are committed to creating inclusive, respectful, and supportive learning environments for all participants.


Policies:

Refunds: 

Refunds are available within 7 days of purchase, provided the course has not been substantially accessed or completed.

Because this is an asynchronous (self-study) course with immediate access to all materials, refunds will not be issued if the participant has completed the course, attempted the post-test, or accessed a significant portion of the course content. To request a refund, participants must contact [email protected] within 7 days of purchase. Approved refunds will be issued to the original form of payment.


Accessibility/Accommodations Policy:

Autism Included is committed to providing accessible learning experiences for all participants. This asynchronous course is designed to be accessible across a range of learning needs and preferences.

Participants who require accommodations or have specific accessibility needs are encouraged to contact us at [email protected] prior to enrollment or at any time during the course. We will make reasonable efforts to provide appropriate supports to ensure equitable access to course content and participation.

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