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Patricia Schetter
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Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Expands on sensory differences for people on the spectrum, including practical tools for identifying triggers and communicating feelings
Provides insights into typical strengths and weaknesses of individuals on the spectrum in relation to identified impairments
Taught by Patricia Schetter, an experienced instructor in autism spectrum disorder
Provides evidence-based practices for effective interventions
Examines the newest National Standards Report studies and treatments
Offers a Professional Concentration in Autism, providing a more in-depth learning experience

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Reviews summary

Understanding autism spectrum disorder fundamentals

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive overview and solid introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder. Many found the modules well-structured and the information presented clearly and concisely. Specific topics like sensory regulation and evidence-based practices were particularly appreciated. Students report gaining valuable insights and a better understanding, making it highly recommended for educators, parents, and professionals. However, some reviewers felt the course lacked depth on specific interventions and might be too basic for those with prior knowledge, suggesting it's best as a starting point that may require supplemental resources.
Module on sensory issues is valuable.
"I gained a much better understanding of the sensory challenges faced by individuals with ASD."
"As an educator, I found the sections on sensory regulation and communication tools incredibly useful."
"The sensory module alone was worth the price."
Course structure is logical.
"The modules were well-structured and easy to follow."
"This course is well-organized and covers a lot of ground."
"Excellent course! Very informative and presented in an accessible way."
Relevant for parents & professionals.
"This is valuable information for parents and professionals alike."
"The course material is relevant to both parents and professionals."
"Great resource for anyone interacting with individuals with ASD."
Provides a strong foundation in ASD.
"This course exceeded my expectations! It provides a comprehensive overview of ASD, covering diagnosis, characteristics, and practical strategies."
"A solid introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder. The modules were well-structured and easy to follow."
"Very useful course for gaining a foundational understanding of ASD. Covers the key areas well."
Too basic for experienced learners.
"it didn't go as deep as I had hoped. Some of the content felt a bit basic, especially if you already have some prior knowledge of ASD."
"Informative but lacked depth in certain areas. Good starting point but not sufficient for advanced learners."
"I was hoping for more practical strategies and less theory... didn't provide enough actionable advice for working directly with individuals."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Autism Spectrum Disorder with these activities:
Review your notes from previous courses on child development.
Reviewing your notes on child development will refresh your understanding of the typical developmental milestones and help you to better understand the challenges faced by individuals with ASD.
Browse courses on Child Development
Show steps
  • Gather your notes from previous courses on child development.
  • Review your notes and make sure you understand the key concepts.
Review the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to familiarize yourself with diagnostic criteria.
Reading the DSM-5 will give you a solid foundation in the diagnostic criteria for ASD, which will be essential for understanding the course material.
Show steps
  • Purchase the DSM-5 from the American Psychiatric Association.
  • Read the introduction and section on Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Practice identifying the signs and symptoms of ASD in children and adults.
Practicing identifying the signs and symptoms of ASD will improve your ability to recognize and understand the disorder.
Browse courses on Autism
Show steps
  • Find a list of signs and symptoms of ASD.
  • Look for examples of these signs and symptoms in people you know or observe.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Learn about the different evidence-based practices for treating ASD.
Learning about evidence-based practices will help you to understand the best ways to support individuals with ASD.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on evidence-based practices for ASD.
  • Watch or read the tutorials.
Attend a workshop on sensory processing disorders.
Attending a workshop will provide you with an opportunity to learn from experts in the field and to network with other professionals.
Show steps
  • Search for workshops on sensory processing disorders.
  • Register for a workshop.
Create a presentation or infographic on the different types of sensory processing disorders.
Creating a presentation or infographic will help you to organize and synthesize your knowledge of sensory processing disorders.
Browse courses on Sensory Processing
Show steps
  • Research the different types of sensory processing disorders.
  • Decide on a format for your presentation or infographic.

Career center

Learners who complete Autism Spectrum Disorder will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Autism Specialist
Autism Specialists provide support to individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, and homes. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, its impact on individuals and families, and evidence-based interventions that can help individuals with ASD reach their full potential.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are certified professionals who provide behavior therapy to individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, the principles of behavior therapy, and the requirements for becoming a BCBA.
ABA Therapist
ABA Therapists use the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to help individuals with autism spectrum disorder learn new skills and improve their behavior. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, the principles of ABA, and evidence-based interventions that can help individuals with ASD make progress.
Autism Researcher
Autism Researchers conduct research on the causes, symptoms, and treatment of autism spectrum disorder. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, research methods, and the current state of autism research.
Behavior Technician
Behavior Technicians provide support to individuals with autism spectrum disorder. They work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to implement behavior intervention plans and help individuals reach their full potential. This course will help you gain a clear understanding of ASD and its impact on behavior, which will be essential for success in this role.
Early Intervention Specialist
Early Intervention Specialists provide support to infants and toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can help infants and toddlers with ASD reach their full potential. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, its impact on early development, and evidence-based interventions that can help infants and toddlers with ASD make progress.
Developmental Psychologist
Developmental Psychologists study the cognitive, emotional, and social development of children. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can help researchers understand the causes and symptoms of ASD and develop new interventions. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, its impact on development, and research methods that can be used to study ASD.
Director of Special Education
Directors of Special Education oversee special education programs and services for students with disabilities. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can ensure that students with ASD have access to the resources and support they need to succeed in school. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, the legal requirements for special education, and the principles of effective special education programs.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help individuals with disabilities participate in everyday activities. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can help individuals with ASD develop the skills they need to succeed in school, work, and everyday life. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, its impact on motor skills and sensory processing, and evidence-based interventions that can help individuals reach their full potential.
Special Education Teacher
Special Education Teachers work closely with students with a wide range of developmental needs. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder and related practices can help students integrate into general classrooms and lead full and happy lives. This course, which covers the primary areas of impairment and evidence-based interventions, may help you build a foundation for a successful career in Special Education.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists diagnose and treat communication disorders. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can help individuals with ASD develop their communication skills. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, its impact on communication, and evidence-based interventions that can help individuals improve their communication skills.
Educational Psychologist
Educational Psychologists help children and adolescents with learning and behavioral challenges. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can help children with ASD succeed in school and reach their full potential. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, its impact on learning, and evidence-based interventions that can help children with ASD succeed in school.
School Counselor
School Counselors work with students of all ages to help them succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can provide support to students with ASD and their families, helping them navigate the challenges of school and life. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, its impact on learning and behavior, and evidence-based interventions that can help students succeed.
Case Manager
Case Managers provide support to individuals with disabilities and their families. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can help individuals with ASD access the resources and support they need to live independently and reach their full potential. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, the role of case managers, and the resources available to individuals with ASD.
Social Worker
Social Workers help individuals and families cope with a variety of challenges. Those with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorder can help individuals with ASD and their families access resources and support services. This course will help you gain a better understanding of ASD, its impact on individuals and families, and evidence-based interventions that can help families cope with the challenges of ASD.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Comprehensive guide to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) for parents and professionals. It covers the diagnosis, causes, and treatments for ASD, as well as the latest research on the disorder. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about ASD.
A comprehensive guide to Asperger's syndrome that provides an overview of the disorder, its diagnosis, and treatment options. It also includes personal stories from individuals with Asperger's syndrome.
A user-friendly guide to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that provides an overview of the disorder, its diagnosis, and treatment options. It also includes personal stories from individuals with ASD.
A unique perspective on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from Temple Grandin, a world-renowned expert on the disorder. Grandin shares her personal experiences with ASD and offers insights into the minds of individuals with ASD.
Guide for employers of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It covers the diagnosis, causes, and treatments for ASD, as well as the latest research on the disorder. This book valuable resource for employers who are looking for information and support.
An exploration of the autistic brain and how it differs from the neurotypical brain. Grandin and Panek provide insights into the unique ways that individuals with ASD think and process information.
Case-based approach to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It provides case studies of children with ASD, and discusses the diagnosis, causes, and treatments for ASD. This book valuable resource for professionals who work with children with ASD.
Guide for educators of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It covers the diagnosis, causes, and treatments for ASD, as well as the latest research on the disorder. This book valuable resource for teachers and other educators who work with children with ASD.
A comprehensive guide to Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism that provides an overview of the disorders, their diagnosis, and treatment options. It also includes personal stories from individuals with Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism.
A practical guide to creating and implementing an autism treatment plan. It provides step-by-step instructions on how to assess needs, develop goals, and implement interventions.

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