Extent of evidence-based practice utilization by SPED educators in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) of Kidz Gym Learning Center, Talamban: Basis for a school-based enrichment program

2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 15

Available Online:  7 July 2026

Author/s:

Cañares, Glenda C.*
Cebu Technological University, Philippines (Glendacanares143@gmail.com)

Cabarles, Mae Janine M.
Gairanod, Joanna Clidette G.
Guardiana, Angellit
Pinili, Lilibeth C.
Tenerife- Cañete, Janine Joy
Espina, Raymond C.
Capuno, Reylan G.
Taghoy, Julius
Calasang, Veronica
Mangubat, Randy

Abstract:

This study aimed to assess special education teachers’ perceived competence in implementing Evidence-Based Practices (EBP) for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Employing a descriptive-correlational research design, the study explored the extent to which a Special Education school in Cebu City adopted EBPs in teaching students with ASD. Participants comprised Special Education teachers from Kidz Gym Learning Center. Data was collected using an EBP Inventory developed by the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder and adapted from Wong et al. (2014). Findings highlighted a high level of familiarity with EBPs such as “Prompting,” “Reinforcement,” and “Self-management,” while awareness of “Discrete Trial Training” and “Pivotal Response Training” was limited. These results underscore the need for targeted professional development to improve proficiency in less-utilized strategies. The findings suggest that collaboration among teachers and administrators may improve EBP utilization and teachers’ knowledge. Based on the study’s findings, a School-Based Enrichment Program for Applying Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs) is recommended to support SPED teachers.

Keywords: special education, descriptive-correlational, inclusive education, autism spectrum disorder, action plan

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26301

Cite this article:
Cañares, G. C., Cabarles, M. J. M., Gairanod, J. C. G., Guardiana, A., Pinili, L. C., Tenerife- Cañete, J. J., Espina, R. C., Capuno, R. G., Taghoy, J., Calasang, V., & Mangubat, R. (2026). Extent of evidence-based practice utilization by SPED educators in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) of Kidz Gym Learning Center, Talamban: Basis for a school-based enrichment program. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(15), 259-265. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26301

* Corresponding Author