Spotlight on ASD - Autism

ASD, or Autism Spectrum Disorder, is just that - a spectrum, caused by differences in the brain. It can be mild to severe, and scientists believe it may have many causes which are genetic. No two people on the spectrum are the same.

Many people with ASD prefer the word "autism" which is fair enough. The word "disorder" has negative connotations. Autism is really just a 'different' way of seeing, hearing and experiencing the world, but of course in the classroom this can present its own challenges. 

What seems to work best for a student "on the spectrum" is a clear and predictable structure, lots of visuals, and not too much in the way of clutter or noise. Social skills often need to be taught directly.

There are definite upsides to being "on the spectrum." If you think about group work in classrooms, a student who displays excellent memory and is creative, or is passionate and hyperfocused has a lot to contribute to any class project. As with anything, it is always good to build on the positives and to get to know other people whose path through life may be different to ours, but just as unique and exciting, as we have much to learn from everyone.

In the student survey these comments were made:

What do you think ASD (Autism) is?

• A neurological disorder you're born with that makes you slightly different to others

• When a person's paths in their brain are not all in sink causing them to be Austistic

• I don’t know much about what it is I just know people who have it

• Find it hard to understand how other people think or feel

• People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviours or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention

• Difficulty with social cues

• When you get upset or angry about little things, but some people are also really intelligent

Here is my favourite quote on autism:

“Autism . . . offers a chance for us to glimpse an awe-filled vision of the world that might otherwise pass us by.” – Dr. Colin Zimbleman, Ph.D.