Webinars

Welcome to the ACE's Webinar Collection

Webinar: The Numbers Behind Autism-Unpacking Prevalence, Trends, and Understanding of Heterogeneity

October 24, 2025
Dr. Pierce — the California site Principal Investigator for the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network — takes an in-depth look at the rising prevalence rates and what they truly mean. She explores how evolving diagnostic criteria, shifting terminology, and a growing recognition of autism’s biological and clinical diversity have reshaped our understanding of the condition. 

SPARK Lunch & Learn Webinar

September 15, 2023
See Dr. Karen Pierce's presentation on the SPARK Study, detailing how children and adults with autism can access genetic testing at no cost.

Eye Tracking Toddlers With and Without Developmental Disorders

November 11, 2020
See Dr. Karen Pierce's presentation on eye-tracking research in children with autism.
For more information about eye-tracking equipment, go to www.tobiipro.com.

SPARK — The Largest Autism Genetic Study Ever!

September 24, 2020
See Dr. Karen Pierce's presentation on SPARK and how families can receive genetic testing at NO COST!

SPARK Webinar FAQs

Q: If only one biological parent is available, can me and my child still participate?
A: Yes, you can participate even if only one parent is available.

Q: If I am an adoptive parent, can my child with autism still participate?
A: Yes, please reach out to your local coordinator for more details.

Q: If I have another child without a diagnosis of autism, will they be able to provide a sample?
A: Yes, if one of your children has formal diagnosis, a sibling without autism will be able to contribute a sample.

Q: If I have child that is suspected on the autism spectrum, will my family be able to participate in SPARK?
A: This study requires one child to have a formal diagnosis of autism.

For more frequently asked questions, visit SPARK FAQs.