Year
2012
Units
4.5
Contact
1 x 2-hour lecture weekly
1 x 50-minute tutorial weekly
1 x 8-hour independent study weekly
1 x 60-minute on-line exercises weekly
Enrolment not permitted
DSRS3113 has been successfully completed
Assessment
Assignments; Tests
Topic description
This topic is designed to provide beginning insights into autism spectrum disorders through a balanced perspective of family (including the individual with autism/asperger syndrome), community, educational and employment issues. Quality of life issues for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families will be highlighted throughout the topic.
Educational aims
Aims of the topic:

  1. To examine key issues in relation to diagnosis, family, community, education, employment, and quality of life.

  2. To present autism spectrum disorders from the perspective of the individual with the disability and family members, e. g. parents, siblings and grandparents.

  3. To examine best practices in the field of autism spectrum disorders.

  4. To facilitate critical thinking and debate in relation to key issues associated with theory and practice in the field of autism spectrum disorders.

Expected learning outcomes
On completion of this topic students will be able to:

  1. Describe the critical issues associated with the concept and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders.

  2. Demonstrate an understanding of the challenges experienced by individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

  3. Demonstrate an understanding of the family issues associated with autism spectrum disorders.

  4. Recognise and discuss the support needs of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder and their families.

  5. Discuss the learning style of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder and relate to teaching/support strategies.

  6. Recognise and discuss best practice in educating and supporting individuals with an autism spectrum disorder.