Autism Spectrum Disorders/ASD Teaching Method

Humanistic Teaching Theory
The Humanistic Teaching Theory is based on the premise that we learn best when we are striving towards self-actualization in our learning. Using this teaching method, the educator acts as facilitator, providing the learners with information, strategies, and options, thereby assisting the learner to make informed and self-actualized choices.

Teaching Content
All the following content available on the Wikieducator page

1) What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of complex neurodevelopment disorders, characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior a. Experts estimate that one out of every 91 children will have ASD. Males are four times more likely to have ASD than females. b. Prevalence data c. Disorders in the spectrum i. Autism (classic) ii.Asperger’s Syndrome iii. Pervasive Developmental Disorder NOS (atypical autism) * Childhood Disintegrative Disorder * Rett Syndrome

2) What causes Autism?

Scientists aren’t certain about what causes ASD, but it’s likely that both genetics and environment play a role. Researchers have identified a number of genes associated with the disorder. Studies of people with ASD have found irregularities in several regions of the brain.

Sidebar- Autism everyday http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDMMwG7RrFQ&feature=related

3. How are ASDs diagnosed? a. Very early indicators that require evaluation by an expert b. Later indicators c. Common overall signs d. Co-morbidities e. Tests

Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=filK9gZw4rA (also attached to WIKI)

4. How are ASDs treated?

5. Alternative therapies

6. Interesting outcomes

a. Jason McElwain

Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fw1CcxCUgg (also attached to WIKI)

b. Steven Wiltshire- savant autism, drawing

Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAfaM_CBvP8 (also attached to WIKI)

c. Daniel - savant autism with numbers Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKk96kOAnLg&feature=related (also attached to WIKI)

d. Alandra Clemens- Savant autism- sculpture http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKk96kOAnLg&feature=PlayList&p=5D961399B57BBFAF&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=12 (also attached to WIKI)