OLT Autism Training

I have recently been given the opportunity to undertake some Autism training through my school which is a mixture of face to face and online training.

The insights that have been given onto Autism today have interested me, especially the changes in the definition of Autism under DSM - 5, where Autism Spectrum Disorder is classified by levels and is determined by assessment by medical professionals.

Two matters have stood out for me which I will need to consider as a Teacher Librarian:

1. Ensuring that I provide explicit instructions in how to access library services. I have focused on providing step by step guides in how to access database or undertake a particular task in a program or application for the general school community. Could breaking it down further be better and/or identify an area that may require explicit instructions or ensure effective use.
2. Inquiry Learning - We have been presented with a hypothetical case study as part of the course. The person who was one who found creative tasks and answering open ended questions difficult. While inquiry learning is great in formulating questions of our choice to help us in research, for a person with autism, it may be overwhelming. Obviously there is a need for detailed steps to be followed including templates and scaffolds. But what about what to choose as their area of focus. I have thought about it and I would suggest at this time to focus on the persons specific interest area to narrow it down and allow them to enjoy a research task that accommodates their interests.

Aspergers Syndrome

During the Easter Weekend this year, Good Weekend (The Sydney Morning Herald & The Age) had a feature report on how Aspergers Syndrome is now regarded as "cool" to have and also looked at how this form of Autism impacts on those who suffer the condition and their families.

What has concerned me as of late are plans to classify it as a remove Aspergers Syndrome from the Autism Spectrum and classify it as a "social anxiety disorder". This has implications for sufferers, their families and for us as teachers.

My mother, a teachers assistant has attended inservices on Autism and has amassed a collection of resources relating to Aspergers Syndrome.

I also have done my own research as part of my university studies plus I also have read the book "The Complete Guide to Aspergers Syndrome" by Dr.Tony Attwood. It is a must read.

I do have a huge interest for Special Education hence my interest. If I wasn't going to be a teacher librarian, I'd most likely be a Special Education Teacher.

At least 1 % of children have Asperger Syndrome. Some of the characteristics found in those with the syndrome include:

• Obsession with routine and order.
• Special interests which can be obsessive.
• Difficulty understanding non verbal communication.
• Poor social skills.
• Difficulty controlling emotions.
• Academically they perform at average or above average levels.
• Difficulty with fine motor skills.
• Can be clumsy.
• Hypersensitivity with their senses (taste, sight, smell, touch, hearing)

There is not just a social or mental impact, but there is a physical side too.  If it was to be classed as a "social anxiety disorder", then how is one to account for the broader characteristics of Aspergers Syndrome within the definition?

To move Asperger Syndrome away from the Autism spectrum I feel will impact on students with the condition within the classroom because I feel that they will be denied the support that they might have under the current definition.

Making it a success with Sue Larkey

My mother who is a teachers assistant has been receiving newsletters from Sue Larkey. Larkey is an educator that has taught students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in mainstream and special schools.

The newsletter provides practical strategies for school and for the home in supporting those who have an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

If you are a teacher, I strongly recommend that you subscribe to her monthly newsletter; regardless of whether you teach students with the condition or not. Even if you are a parent of a child with ASD, it is also a must.

Click on this link to allow you to register for her newsletter. You can receive it in the post or electronically.

Her website also contains useful resources. You can also purchase resources and obtain information on workshops that she has organised for each state. In NSW the workshops are recognised as professional development by the NSW Institute of Teachers.

I hope to go to one of her workshops this year. I believe that anyone with ASD can be successful in their lives just like anyone else can and live the same life that we take for granted.