Learners on the Autism
Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Definition • Characteristics •
Assessment & Identification
Definition
• • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a
neurodevelopmental condition.
• • Impacts how a learner thinks, learns,
communicates, and interacts with others.
• • Symptoms usually appear in the first 2–3
years of life.
• • A “spectrum” because each individual shows
a unique combination of strengths and
challenges.
Key Characteristics of Learners
with ASD
• • Social Communication Challenges:
• - Difficulty starting/maintaining
conversations
• - Trouble with eye contact, gestures, or
humor
• • Restricted/Repetitive Behaviors:
• - Repetitive movements or routines
• - Strong attachment to interests/objects
Assessment & Identification
• • Early Screening:
• - ASQ, M-CHAT developmental tools
• • Comprehensive Evaluation:
• - Done by pediatricians, psychologists,
neurologists
• • Standardized Tools:
• - ADOS, CARS, ADI-R
Implications for Teachers
• • Provide structured routines and clear
instructions.
• • Use visual supports like charts and
schedules.
• • Encourage peer support and cooperative
learning.
• • Differentiate teaching to match student
strengths.
• • Foster an inclusive classroom environment.
References
• American Psychiatric Association. (2013).
Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental
disorders (5th ed.).
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
(2025). Autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/
index.html
• Lord, C., Rutter, M., DiLavore, P. C., Risi, S.,

ASD_Presentation.pptx71253863126316363763

  • 1.
    Learners on theAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Definition • Characteristics • Assessment & Identification
  • 2.
    Definition • • AutismSpectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition. • • Impacts how a learner thinks, learns, communicates, and interacts with others. • • Symptoms usually appear in the first 2–3 years of life. • • A “spectrum” because each individual shows a unique combination of strengths and challenges.
  • 3.
    Key Characteristics ofLearners with ASD • • Social Communication Challenges: • - Difficulty starting/maintaining conversations • - Trouble with eye contact, gestures, or humor • • Restricted/Repetitive Behaviors: • - Repetitive movements or routines • - Strong attachment to interests/objects
  • 4.
    Assessment & Identification •• Early Screening: • - ASQ, M-CHAT developmental tools • • Comprehensive Evaluation: • - Done by pediatricians, psychologists, neurologists • • Standardized Tools: • - ADOS, CARS, ADI-R
  • 5.
    Implications for Teachers •• Provide structured routines and clear instructions. • • Use visual supports like charts and schedules. • • Encourage peer support and cooperative learning. • • Differentiate teaching to match student strengths. • • Foster an inclusive classroom environment.
  • 6.
    References • American PsychiatricAssociation. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). • https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/ index.html • Lord, C., Rutter, M., DiLavore, P. C., Risi, S.,