Using eCoaching to Promote Independent and Effective Functioning of Neurodiverse Learners

One of the critical factors that contribute to the effectiveness of evidence-based practices (EBPs) to promote positive social-communication, behavioral, and academic outcomes for neurodiverse learners is implementation fidelity or the extent to which EBPs are implemented as planned. Learning to implement EBPs with fidelity requires explicit training and multiple practice opportunities. One approach to promote the adoption and implementation fidelity of EBPs with neurodiverse learners across settings consists of providing effective training to educators and parents to implement specific and complex interventions correctly. eCoaching is an evidence-based training that has been demonstrated to improve the implementation fidelity of EBPs in educators and parents. In this chapter, we will provide an overview ofEcoaching and neurodevelopmental disorders eCoaching and discuss its application to educators, neurodiverse learners, and parents. We will begin by defining the concept of eCoaching with bug-in-ear (BIE) technology. Next, we will provide a historical overview of the evolution of eCoaching with BIE technology and discuss the different terms used to refer to this training approach. Then, we will discuss several considerations related to the successful and ethical implementation of eCoaching with BIE technology. We will continue by reviewing empirical studies that examined the effects of eCoaching with BIE technology on skill acquisition in educators, neurodiverse learners, and parents. Finally, we will end the chapter by presenting directions for future research and practice on eCoaching with BIE technology.