New teaching model for students with autism spectrum disorders

On the initiative of the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia, the Child Development Institute of Ilia State University has developed an integrated class model for public school students with autism spectrum disorders, which was piloted in Tbilisi Public School No. 55. The new integrated class model and the results of the piloting were reviewed by experts, educators, school principals, as well as representatives of universities and international organizations.

Within the framework of the "Promotion of Inclusive Education" program for students with autism spectrum disorders, the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia has been implementing the integrated class service since 2013. The integrated class is equipped with supplementary educational resources and staffed by a psychologist, special education teachers, and a subject teacher who work with students both in groups and individually to increase their engagement in the lesson process and promote socialization.

Integrated classes currently operate in 8 public schools in Georgia (Tbilisi Public Schools No. 166, No. 72, No. 41, No. 132, No. 55, Tbilisi Classical Gymnasium, Batumi Public School No. 13, and Rustavi Public School No. 21).