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Developing a Home-Based Early Intervention Personnel Training Program in Southeast China

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Topics in Early Childhood Special Education

Published online on

Abstract

China is expected to have a rapid growth in specialized early intervention (EI) services for young children ages birth to 6 and their families. A major barrier in the provision of EI services in China is the shortage of well-trained EI personnel. In 2013, a Home-Based Early Intervention Program (HBEIP) was started at South China Normal University (SCNU) in Guangzhou, China to prepare future professionals to use family-centered EI practices adapted from similar programs in the United States. During the first year of implementation, HBEIP collected data from a self-efficacy survey and a needs assessment. Results from the evaluation showed that Chinese trainees perceived the family-centered approach to EI as relevant and valuable, and indicated needs for improving supervision and coaching supports in future implementation of HBEIP. The research team discussed implications for cross-cultural adaptation and implementation of personnel training practices.