Autism Awareness Diploma

The Autism Awareness course aims to develop your understanding of the diverse condition of autism and gives practical suggestions when working with autistic individuals.

Autism refers to a whole range of social, language and communication issues. Severity ranges from mild and often undiagnosed to severe, where it is almost impossible for people to successfully engage in society.

The aim of this course is to provide a better awareness of the term “autism” and “autistic spectrum disorder” (ASD) and how to support individuals with autism.

Module 1

Outline of Learning Disabilities

• Introduction (to include the myths, what is and what is not)
• How learning disabilities can affect social and emotional development of children and young people
• Outline and understand the different learning disabilities

Module 2

• The definition of autism
• The difference between autism and Asperger syndrome
• The three different conditions within the autistic spectrum
• The difficulties encompassed with social interaction, communication and imagination which affect the learning of a young person with ASD

Module 3

Causes of Autism

• Genetic & environmental causes of autism
• Diagnosing autism in children
• Diagnosing autism in adults
• The gender differences

Module 4

Explaining Autistic Behaviour

• Understanding the concept of challenging behaviour
• Recognising characteristics of autism through childrens behaviour
• The ‘theory of mind’, and of how lack of this this affects young people with ASD

Module 5

Communication and Language

• Process involved in receptive language
• Process of expressive language
•  Strengths and weaknesses of the speech, language and communication skills of a young person with autism spectrum disorder

Module 6

Approaches to Autism

• Person-centred approach
• Planning to meet individual needs
• Planning for social inclusion

Module 7

Practical suggestions when working with Autism

• Practical considerations
• Suggestions to create a safe environment
• Visual Strategies
• Aspects of non-verbal communication and their role in supporting someone with autism

Module 8

Ethical, Legal and Organisational Issues

• Outline possible challenges for
  • Worker
  • Family
• Outline avenues for support and helpful resources