AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
Definition
According to Autism Speaks, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) "refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences" (Autism Speaks, 2018). It can also be defined as "a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication (Mayo Clinic, 2018).
Some of the signs that can be seen according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC are not answering to their name at 12 months, not pointing to objects to show interest at 14 months, having a small amount of imagination at 28 months, and avoiding eye contact, delayed speech skills, and becoming upset of minor things (CDC, 2017).
There are two things that have an role in ASD, genetics and environment factors. With genetics some can have an association with Rett Syndrome or Fragile X Syndrome.
Environment also can have a key role into how ASD can occur. Things such as viral infection, medications, and complications during pregnancy are things that researchers have looked into. (Mayo Clinic, 2018)
AutismSpeaks conducted a survey, according to this survey it stated that " 1 in 50 school-age children have autism spectrum disorder. This survey estimated that 1 in 88 of Autism prevalence is based on medical and school records of 8 year old children at monitoring sites across the country" (Autism Speaks, 2018).
Instructional Strategies
According to Reading Rockets, some instructional Strategies for the classroom that may support these learners include:
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Learn about the learner from the learner
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Teach to fascinations
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Get them talking
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Give them choices
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Consider handwriting alternatives
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Help them with organizing
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Support transition
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Create a comfortable classroom environment
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Take a break
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Keep them included
(Reading Rocket 2018)
Useful Websites
http://www.readingrockets.org/article/supporting-students-autism-10-ideas-inclusive-classrooms
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20352928
Research
de Bruin, Deppeler, Moore, and Diamond set out to make contributions to literature by using a consistent set of research of four intervention categories: antecedent, consequences, self-management, and video-based instruction. They found strategies within the categories were well documented and appropriate for use with all individuals diagnosed with ASD which includes adolescents and young adults that attend public schools.
de Bruin, Catriona L., et al. “Public School–Based Interventions for Adolescents and Young Adults With an Autism Spectrum Disorder.” SAGE Journals, 1 Dec. 2013, journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.3102/0034654313498621.
"Prenatal genetic testing (PGT) for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) raises more complex ethical, legal, and social implications in Taiwan than in Western countries due to policy-related, practical, cultural, and familial reasons. This first qualitative study examines attitudes towards PGT for ASD among Taiwanese parents of children with ASD – an elevated risk group for having another affected child, and one that is mostly likely to be impacted by PGT for ASD".
Zhao, Shixi, et al. “A Qualitative Study Exploring the Attitudes toward Prenatal Genetic Testing for Autism Spectrum Disorders among Parents of Affected Children in Taiwan.” Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, Elsevier, 3 Feb. 2018, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1750946718300199.
According to Klutz and Darmdy-Latham, visual supports can be provided at home, school, work, and through the community. They suggested using supports such as graphic organizers, flow charts, and Venn diagrams along with verbal instructions.
Rao, Shaila M., and Brenda Gagie. “Learning through Seeing and Doing.” SAGE Journals, 1 July 2006, journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/004005990603800604.
"Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of several intensive early intervention programs based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). They include the Early Start Denver Model, Pivotal Response Therapy and JASPER (Joint Attention, Symbolic Play, Engagement and Regulation). These programs emphasize play-based interactions that encourage shared, or joint, attention and communication. Although these specific programs may not be available in your area, their principles can be integrated into your child’s program"
“Autism Therapies and Supports.” Autism Speaks, 25 July 2012, www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/learn-more-autism/autism-therapies-supports.
Resources
“Autism Spectrum Disorder.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 6 Jan. 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20352928.
“Autism Therapies and Supports.” Autism Speaks, 25 July 2012, www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/learn-more-autism/autism-therapies-supports.
“Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 26 Feb. 2015, www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html.
“Supporting Students with Autism: 10 Ideas for Inclusive Classrooms.” Reading Rockets, 6 Sept. 2017, www.readingrockets.org/article/supporting-students-autism-10-ideas-inclusive-classrooms.
de Bruin, Catriona L., et al. “Public School–Based Interventions for Adolescents and Young Adults With an Autism Spectrum Disorder.” SAGE Journals, 1 Dec. 2013, journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.3102/0034654313498621.
Rao, Shaila M., and Brenda Gagie. “Learning through Seeing and Doing.” SAGE Journals, 1 July 2006, journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/004005990603800604.
Zhao, Shixi, et al. “A Qualitative Study Exploring the Attitudes toward Prenatal Genetic Testing for Autism Spectrum Disorders among Parents of Affected Children in Taiwan.” Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, Elsevier, 3 Feb. 2018, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1750946718300199.
