Description
This survey course introduces the students to the history of the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) continuum and issues raised by this diagnosis for individuals, their families, and support and therapeutic practitioners. The etiology of ASD, how ASD is diagnosed, prevalence, social and language differences, sensory integration concerns, emotional characteristics, expectations of each person, and the need for structure and predictability will all be discussed. Guest speakers will bring current practice issues to the class. Observations will be included in the course work. Maine criminal and child abuse background checks must be successfully completed before observations may be done. Prerequisite: EDU101.