Compass

Autism is a complex and often puzzling disorder in which pinning down a set of rules surrounding the teaching of children with ASD is almost impossible to do. Many theories and approaches claim to have the solution to teaching, yet few provide the answers when an autistic child goes against the status quo. What are needed are principles of good practice, not recipes.

This 2-day workshop explores this problem with a principled approach that is based on the understanding of the pedagogy and the psychology of Autism. It shows how theory can influence practice and sets out a cognitive view of the relationship between learning and Autism whilst explaining how the curriculum must be constructed to accommodate that relationship and the individual. The concept of an ‘Autism-friendly’ environment is examined as is the process of how schools and other institutions/ services might be helped to create such an environment. Prof Jordan covers examples of good practice in the most salient areas of the curriculum including:

The Therapeutic Curriculum:

• The role of educators and therapists, and processes for Inclusion to create Autism friendly environments

• Current Interventions and Curriculum issues to consider in the main topic areas

Building social & emotional understanding & skills:

• Teaching ‘meaningful’ behaviour & the role of play

Enabling language and communication across the ability spectrum - Developing Flexibility and problem solving:

• Learning and behaviour

• Principles of a cognitive program and a cognitive teaching approach

Access to the academic curriculum:

• ‘Specialist’ Education vs Inclusion

• Autism friendly environments

• Single vs Eclectic Cirricula

• Secondary School & Transitions

Working together towards adult life

Rita Jordan is Emeritus Professor in Autism Studies at The University of Birmingham where she has written about and researched many aspects of ASD and overseen the development of a range of professional development programs in Autism studies. She holds a BSc: Psychology, an MSc: Child Development, an MA: Linguistics, and a PhD in the area of Autism.

She is also qualified teacher and has been a Deputy Principal of a school for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) having pioneered the establishment of services in the UK for children then excluded from education.

She continues to serve on national and international task forces and working parties to review evidence and offer advice in relation to ASD. In 2007, Rita received an OBE for her services to special needs education.

Seats for this event are strictly limited.

Outstanding presentation, there is no doubting Rita's passion and up to date theory and practice.  The complexity of Autism was clearly explained and - even better - useful strategies for use in educational settings.  I came away with a much greater understanding of Autism despite having worked with such students over a period of years.

Principal.

Excellent - very informative.  Consolidation of knowledge and many new insights.  The presentation was light enough to move proceedings along, but never disrespectful and full of valuable information.

Special Needs Assistant.

Rita is a very engaging and entertaining speaker.  The content was very informative and helpful in an easy-to-listen-to way.

Occupational Therapist.

This was one of the most engaging and informative seminars I have attended.  Rita is not only a world class expert on Autism but has a lovely style that kept everyone interested.

Clinical Psychologist.

A fantastically motivating presentation with pro-active examples delivered in a knowledgeable and inspiring manner.

Early Childhood Teacher.