What is collaboration?

What do we mean when we say that a child or teen with ASD needs to learn to collaborate? What, exactly, does collaboration involve? Below is a list of behaviors described by Steve Gutstein, creator of RDI, that make up collaboration. Collaboration involves: 1) contributing as a partner or group/team member to the formulation and attainment of common goals. 2) negotiationg roles and organizing role relations, time constraints, resource needs and project plans. 3) taking responsibility to synchronize actions, intentions, interpretations and roles with partners. 4) adapting communication based on partner's understanding, expertise and interests. 5) finding common ground for sharing and integrating perspectives, ideas, memories and feelings. 6) balancing personal needs with larger group goals. 7) respecting established lines of authority and responsibility. 8) monitoring emotional coordination with partners while maintaining mutual respect and fairness. Each of the above can be written as a goal and should be incorporated into daily life -- including goals that make up an IEP.

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