Research & Resources
COMPASS began in 1996 as a framework for supporting autistic individuals through stronger planning, collaboration, and evidence-based support. Today, the Autism Services Research Group (ASRG) continues to study, adapt, and share COMPASS tools for families, educators, consultants, and communities.
What You'll Find Here
Research Foundation
Discover where COMPASS began and the research questions that guide our work.
Programs & Studies
See how COMPASS programs have been developed, tested, and expanded.
Team in Action
See our team at work, from conferences, presentations, and community partnerships.
Publications & Resources
Browse peer-reviewed publications, forms, guides, and updates from our team.
Our Research, Explained
Our Research Focus
The Autism Services Research Group studies questions that affect autistic individuals, families, educators, clinicians, and service providers. Our work focuses on:
- Services that improve quality of life
- School and community support
- Transition to adulthood
- Family and educator collaboration
- Professional training and implementation
Why this matters
We turn evidence into practical supports that help families, educators, and providers make stronger plans and improve outcomes.
Research Impact
30+ years
of Research
4+
Randomized Controlled
Trials
200+
Conferences &
Presentations
Worldwide
The Evolution of COMPASS
1996
Our Foundation
The idea behind COMPASS began as a framework for understanding the competencies and supports that contribute to meaningful outcomes for autistic individuals.
CONSULTATION & COACHING
Pre-K & Elementary COMPASS was tested as a consultation and coaching intervention for preschool and elementary-aged students. Research demonstrated improvements in individualized educational outcomes.
CAST (COMPASS Across Settings)
Transition Age
CAST expands COMPASS across school, home, and community settings to improve collaboration and transition planning. as students prepare for life after high school.
C-HOPE
Families & Caregivers We then adapted COMPASS in a parent-mediated version, designed to reduce caregiver stress and build skills for supporting children with autism and challenging behavior.
What We're Studying Now
The Autism Services Research Group seeks to investigate many diverse questions that impact persons with autism, their families, and clinicians. Much of our efforts center on testing the effectiveness of the COMPASS intervention model that was created by Dr. Lisa Ruble and Nancy Dalrymple. The COMPASS Consultation Manual is for education consultants and professionals nationwide and beyond.
COMPASS Across Settings (CAST)
CAST provides a wrap-around approach that includes autistic students, caregivers, special education teachers, and pre-employment specialists for comprehensive and improved transition planning and outcomes following high school.
Longitudinal Study of Adult Outcomes
About 20 years ago, Nancy Dalrymple and Lisa Ruble studied outcomes for more than 40 autistic young adults. This follow-up study reconnects with those participants, now in their 40s, to examine quality of life, employment, living situation, family support, and personal responsibilities.
Explore Past Research & Programs
Research in Action
Collectively, the ASRG has presented at over 200 conferences and lecture series across the globe to speak on our contributions to the field and to share our message on how we can all work towards providing accessible, high quality support services for the autism community, caregivers, practitioners, and educators.
Interested in Research with ASRG?
Grad and undergrad students participate in ASRG projects and collaborations with national and international partners. Interested in exploring opportunities to work with our team? Click below.
Featured Resources
Forms & Guides
COMPASS forms, profiles, and downloadable materials.
Educators & Schools
Practical tools and information for families and school teams.
FAQs
Find answers to common COMPASS questions.
Training Opportunities
COMPASS training and professional development.
Ready to Get Started?
Build a COMPASS Profile or request a consultation today.
PUBLICATIONS & RESOURCES
Explore books, manuals, and peer-reviewed research developed by the COMPASS team.
