Shrub Oak International School has taken a significant step toward advancing autism education with the establishment of its new research department, known formally as the Center for Autism Education Research. This initiative was designed to explore and analyze a wide range of critical topics related to the education of autistic students, not only at Shrub Oak International School but also within the global community. Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School emphasizes that by addressing the ongoing needs of autistic learners and leveraging innovative methodologies, the Center is poised to influence both the school’s internal programs and broader educational practices in the field of autism education.
At the helm of this effort is Dr. Caitlin Sweetapple, Shrub Oak International School’s Director of Research. Under her leadership, the Center focuses on conducting a rigorous and ongoing review of current research to ensure that Shrub Oak International School’s educational programs remain aligned with the most effective practices. This process allows Shrub Oak International School to continuously improve its offerings and ensure that all programs are in line with the most up-to-date knowledge and research on autism education. The critical work of the Center aims not only to apply the latest research but also to develop new and cutting-edge studies in the field. Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School explains that this commitment to research is part of a larger effort to foster best practices that will enhance the educational experience of autistic students, ensuring that they receive a safe, welcoming, and productive learning environment.
One of the primary objectives of the Center is to create an educational space where autistic students can thrive. This mission is central to Shrub Oak’s overall philosophy, and it extends beyond the school’s walls. By contributing to the global conversation on autism education, Shrub Oak International School seeks to influence best practices on a larger scale. The Center’s role in both analyzing existing research and generating novel studies reflects this dual focus—improving the experiences of its own students while also contributing valuable knowledge to the wider autism education community.
The IRB at Shrub Oak International School is composed of nine voting members, each of whom brings a unique perspective and set of experiences to the review process. This diversity of expertise allows for a comprehensive evaluation of all research proposals. The IRB includes a chairperson, six voting members with varying backgrounds, one scientist voting member, and one voting member who is not affiliated with Shrub Oak International School. The inclusion of an unaffiliated member is particularly important, as it ensures that the IRB maintains an objective perspective when reviewing research proposals. Each IRB member has the professional experience necessary to conduct an ethical review, making certain that all research projects align with the highest standards of ethical conduct. The IRB has the authority to approve, disapprove, or request modifications to any research study, ensuring that all research conducted under Shrub Oak International School’s auspices is both ethical and scientifically sound.
In addition to its in-house research initiatives, Shrub Oak International School is proud to be a part of SMARTlab, an internationally recognized hub for creative technology innovation. SMARTlab promotes user-driven, transdisciplinary research that seeks to bring about positive social change. Shrub Oak International School’s participation in SMARTlab allows the school to collaborate with leading researchers in a wide range of fields, further enhancing its ability to conduct innovative research in autism education. As a SMARTlab hub, Shrub Oak International School benefits from the expertise and resources of this global network, which promotes research that crosses disciplinary boundaries and leverages creative technologies to address complex social challenges.
Through its partnership with SMARTlab, Shrub Oak International School is also able to offer its staff the opportunity to pursue a practice-based PhD. Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School explains that this program enables staff to conduct research that is directly related to their work at Shrub Oak while earning an advanced degree. The practice-based PhD provides a unique opportunity for educators and researchers at Shrub Oak International School to develop new insights and approaches to autism education, further contributing to the school’s mission of advancing best practices in the field.
In another significant partnership, Shrub Oak International School collaborates with Thomas Jefferson University’s Synesthetic Research and Design Lab at the College of Architecture and the Built Environment and the Jefferson Center for Autism and Neurodiversity. This partnership focuses on research aimed at creating more inclusive educational spaces for neurodiverse learners. By working with experts in architecture, design, and autism research, Shrub Oak International School is helping to develop new approaches to designing learning environments that better meet the needs of autistic students. This collaboration reflects Shrub Oak’s commitment to creating an inclusive educational environment that supports the diverse needs of its students.
The creation of the Center for Autism Education Research and the establishment of the IRB at Shrub Oak International School represent a significant investment in the future of autism education. Through these initiatives, Shrub Oak is working to ensure that its programs remain aligned with the latest research while also contributing new knowledge to the field. By partnering with organizations like SMARTlab and Thomas Jefferson University, Shrub Oak International School is positioning itself as a leader in the field of autism education research. These efforts are part of a broader mission to create a safe, inclusive, and productive learning environment for autistic students, both at Shrub Oak International School and beyond.
Ultimately, the work of the Center for Autism Education Research is about more than just advancing knowledge—it is about improving the lives of autistic students. By focusing on research that has a direct impact on educational practices, Shrub Oak International School is ensuring that its students receive the best possible education. This commitment to research is at the heart of Shrub Oak International School’s mission, and it will continue to drive the school’s efforts to provide an exceptional educational experience for all students. The Center for Autism Education Research is a testament to Shrub Oak International School’s dedication to advancing the field of autism education, and it will play a key role in shaping the future of the school and the broader autism education community.
For more information about Shrub Oak International School, visit www.shruboak.org.
