Chapter Summary:
Chapter 7 defines Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a group of related neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction and by restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. This chapter also described the characteristics, prevalence, causes, identification, assessment, and educational approaches for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Learning Outcomes:
• Describe the defining features of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis.
• Explain how some of the behaviors characteristic of (ASD) can become assets for the child as a learner.
• List factors that might account for the enormous increase in the prevalence of ASD in recent years.
• Describe how etiologic theories and the search for causes of autism have changed from the first reports of the disability to today.
• Explain why development of valid and reliable tools for early screening and diagnosis of ASD is so critical.
• What skills are most important for teachers of children with autism spectrum disorders?
• Briefly describe several evidence-based strategies for teaching students with ASD and specify what distinguishes them from unproven, faddish approaches.
• List some of the advantages and disadvantages of providing educational services for children with ASD in the regular classroom.
Reflection Questions:
1. What are some of the reasons that have been proposed for the increasing prevalence of autism? How do they affect services provided by schools? How should the issue of increasing prevalence influence prevention efforts?
2. Why is it important to conduct a functional analysis before intervening in severe behaviors? How would you address ethical concerns regarding self-injury?
3. Why do think it is so important to teach communication skills to children with autism?
Chapter Activity:
1. Watch the video, What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Answer the following questions:
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Describe some of the characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
What can teachers and support staff do to support children with Autism Spectrum Disorder?