The Autism Spectrum | Origin: ED:131
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Teaching Students with Autism --> The Autism Spectrum
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
This module highlights that while individuals with autism often struggle with unspoken social cues, executive functioning, and transitions like college, they still experience deep emotions and benefit greatly from clear, direct communication. Moving forward, I intend to apply this by intentionally greeting neurodivergent peers directly, avoiding reliance on subtle body language or tone, and offering clear, supportive communication in both group and academic settings.
That there is no cure and that the term aspergers is not really a diagnosis. And that diagnosing autism is muli-faceted.
Autism is a lifelong disability; it does not go away. Students with autism may have a harder time in a classroom setting with social cues and things of that nature.
People with ASD may have tics such as facial grimacing, nose twitching and throat clearing.
Every students is different including those with high funtioning or co- ocurring conditions like anxiety, DHD, OR SENSORY PROCESING CHALLENGES. Instead of focusing on limitations we must recognize each students unique strenght interest and profile. having detailed information about each student five us the exact tools we need to help them succeed.
In my entry level culinary arts program I see firsthand how powerful this understanding is Food is an incredible connector. cooking gives students a hands-on way to build confidence, gain independence, and connect with peers sometimes. I will apply this directly by teaching my students how to navigate food sensitivities and special diets. many individuals on the spectrum manage food allergies, digestive issues or sensory preferences where fit nutritions plays a big role. I will incorporate these concepts into our kitchen lessons teaching my students how to prepare safe nutritious meal that accommodate various dietary needs. this not only helps them make healthy choices for themselves, but also gives them practical real world cooking skills to serve others safely and confident.
Comment on Scott Smith's post: this is important
One thing I learned is that students with ASD and Aspergers have learned to cope with their tendencies. This leads to students being withdrawn from their peers or sometimes slipping by unnoticed. As a teacher, it is important for me to notice these signs and adjust accordingly.
As a K-12 teacher, this gave me a little insight as to what our students on the autism spectrum face when they are in the post-secondary environment. I was a little concerned that the course would continue to refer to aspberger's syndrome, which is no longer correct but was relieved to see the Autism Spectrum Disorder information included. I'm pleased to see that the narrative for adults with ASD is changing to one in which they can lead happy, fufilled lives as we become better informed.
Autism does not decrease the life expectancy of individuals. They, however, have a higher risk of accidents.
It's important to be patient and I plan to also interact as much as possible.
The thing that relates to the classroom for me is that there are high functioning kids with ASD who mask very well. That is something that as teachers we need to recognized and be aware of strategies to effectively reach those kids.
I see students sometimes seeming anxious about where they should sit. Now I will take this as a clue that they might have autism. I can keep an eye on them to help provide a comfortable environment for them. I have one student who cannot stand any noise from classmates chatting while people work in groups to get their lab manual done. I spoke with her privately and told her she can go to the student lounge area to do her work, and she greatly appreciated it.
I did not think about how much a person with ASD might stand out from other students and how this can make them feel exposed and want to withdraw more thus perpetuating the cycle.
People with Autism, even severe levels of Autism, can function independently in many different ways.
I didnt know the 2013 change to the naming convention.
Autism is not some you can outgrow.
I learned there are many myths with the autism spectrum and High-functioning autism individuals who are able to speak, read, write and handle basic life skills like eating and getting dressed and some are able to live independently as adults and can for the most part function within their home and community.
What stood out most to me was that Autism was misdiagnosed and linked to Schizophenia and Down's Syndrome. I'm happy that further research was done and gave these disorders their own categories so that people can get the right diagnosis, resources and treatment.
A lot of empaty is needed to understan to cope with children or adults with this condition. learning to recognize the symtoms in order to best cope with them.
