Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder is the name for a group of developmental disabilities that now includes the following conditions: Autistic Disorder Pervasive Developmental Disorder, not otherwise specified Asperger’s Syndrome Rett Syndrome At one time, these conditions were diagnosed separately. They now all fall under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often an disability” that can cause severe social and behavioral “invisible challenges. One cannot assume that a person with ASD will have low cognitive ability. Students with ASD vary in terms of academic ability. Often people with ASD are superior in one or more academic area. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder often have trouble with communication and social interactions. Functional Limitations include, but are not limited to: Poor verbal and nonverbal communication skills Poor comprehension of oral communication Poor organization A fixation on a specific activity or task Difficulty with abstract thinking and concepts Difficulty with transitions and changes in routine Suggested accommodations for Autism Spectrum Disorder Include, but are not limited to: Testing/assessment modifications including additional time, alternative assessment menus, distraction reduced test space, performance task assessments Reduced course load Access to class notes, a note-taker, or use of a tape recorder for lectures Faculty may find the following strategies helpful in working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Provide support for students making transitions in schedule and environment Use verbal and nonverbal communication When presenting abstract ideas, utilize concrete notes and graphic organizers Monitor student behavior for changes that may signal an increase in stress Avoid the use of idioms and sarcasm that may be misunderstood Be specific and consistent regarding expectations
Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder is the name for a group of developmental disabilities that now includes the following conditions: Autistic Disorder Pervasive Developmental Disorder, not otherwise specified Asperger’s Syndrome Rett Syndrome At one time, these conditions were diagnosed separately. They now all fall under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often an “invisible disability” that can cause severe social and behavioral challenges. One cannot assume that a person with ASD will have low cognitive ability. Students with ASD vary in terms of academic ability. Often people with ASD are superior in one or more academic area. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder often have trouble with communication and social interactions. Functional Limitations include, but are not limited to: Poor verbal and nonverbal communication skills Poor comprehension of oral communication Poor organization A fixation on a specific activity or task Difficulty with abstract thinking and concepts Difficulty with transitions and changes in routine Suggested accommodations for Autism Spectrum Disorder Include, but are not limited to: Testing/assessment modifications including additional time, alternative assessment menus, distraction reduced test space, performance task assessments Reduced course load Access to class notes, a note-taker, or use of a tape recorder for lectures Faculty may find the following strategies helpful in working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Provide support for students making transitions in schedule and environment Use verbal and nonverbal communication When presenting abstract ideas, utilize concrete notes and graphic organizers Monitor student behavior for changes that may signal an increase in stress Avoid the use of idioms and sarcasm that may be misunderstood Be specific and consistent regarding expectations