From Evaluation to Action: Voices of Older Learners at the U.S. Conference on Language and Behavior—A Conversation with the Lead Authors of EFL and VB-MAPP

Travel to the U.S. for the Conference: A Summit Dialogue

Meet the Lead Authors of EFL/VB-MAPP 

Every professional exchange serves to illuminate a glimmer of hope for people with special needs; every refinement of teaching materials helps lay a solid foundation for the vocational future of adults with autism.

Recently, Liu Dan, head of the school’s teaching and research team, was invited by Mystar to attend the U.S. Verbal Behavior Conference (VBC), where she engaged in in-depth, face-to-face discussions with Dr. Mark Sundberg, author of the VB-MAPP, and Dr. McGreevy, author of EFL Life Skills Essentials for in-depth face-to-face discussions. By drawing on cutting-edge international intervention concepts and practical experience, the team has a singular goal: to refine the development of vocational skills teaching materials for adults with autism. Through content that is more scientific and better aligned with real-world needs, they aim to provide professional support for the vocational development and social integration of this population.

At this annual conference, which brought together leading experts in the field of language and behavior from around the world, the core topics consistently centered on rehabilitation education and the development of daily living and vocational skills for individuals with special needs. Liu Dan participated actively throughout the event, focusing on a comprehensive and in-depth review of topics including GLA generative learning assessment, GLC generative learning curriculum, the core theories and practical applications of EFL life skills, and adaptation methods tailored to adults with autism. As the internationally recognized authoritative framework for developing life and vocational skills among individuals with special needs, the EFL philosophy focuses on the refined cultivation of core life skills, vocational adaptability, and social adjustment. This aligns perfectly with our original intent in developing vocational skills textbooks for adults with autism.

EFL Author

During the conference, Liu Dan engaged in an in-depth one-on-one discussion with Dr. McGreevy. Dr. McGreevy shared detailed case studies and practical techniques for applying EFL theory to the vocational skills training of older individuals with special needs. He also provided highly targeted guidance and expressed earnest expectations regarding our current textbook development efforts. Dr. McGreevy emphasized that vocational skills training for older adults with autism must not only align with international professional standards but also be grounded in local practical needs. We must move away from generalized and vague content and focus on practicality and applicability, ensuring that the textbooks truly serve frontline teachers and rehabilitation specialists, and enabling children with autism to genuinely achieve the ability to “learn, apply, and secure employment.” This pragmatic yet forward-looking professional vision not only provides a clear direction for our curriculum development but also deepens the entire team’s understanding that our responsibility extends far beyond simply compiling a set of textbooks; we are paving a path toward employment and dignity.

While attending the conference, Liu Dan, led by Ms. Kadi and Ms. Sihui—both BCBAs and founders of the U.S. Special Education Alliance—visited local health centers, autism rehabilitation facilities, and special education schools. She engaged in discussions with the directors of these institutions to gain an in-depth understanding of their intervention philosophies and curriculum systems.

We have long been deeply committed to the field of autism rehabilitation education and fully understand the vocational challenges and integration difficulties faced by adults with autism. This time, armed with cutting-edge international concepts and guided by a team of PhD experts, Liu Dan has achieved a significant expansion and systematic upgrade of the three practical skill dimensions: vocational preparation, transition, and employment. Moving forward, Liu Dan will fully collaborate with the textbook development team to comprehensively integrate the core elements of EFL, cutting-edge intervention techniques and experiences from the United States, and Dr. McGreevy’s professional recommendations into every aspect of the curriculum. The goal is to create a scientific, professional, practical, and localized set of vocational skills textbooks specifically tailored for adults with autism.

Photos from a visit to the U.S.

VB-MAPP Author