This document provides an overview of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including its definition, characteristics, causes, assessment tools, interventions, teaching strategies, and partnerships to support individuals with ASD. Some key points covered are: - ASD is a developmental disability affecting communication and social skills. It involves a wide range of behaviors and severity. - Common characteristics include lack of communication, lack of social interaction, sensory issues, and insistence on routines. - Assessment tools include the PEP-R, ADOS, and CARS to evaluate individuals for ASD. - Early intervention programs provide structure, predictability, and support to help children with ASD. - Collaboration between families,

1. Spectrum Disorder Helene S. A. Cruz/Joniree Calvo ED 443 G: Assistive and Adaptive Technology November 6, 2008 Dr. Jacqui Cyrus

13. Video Clips Autism: The Misunderstood Child http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZ5JXeGghkc Autism Cure? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0ZanIBoGHU

14. References Smith, Deborah (2007). Introduction to Special Education: Making a Difference 6 th Edition. Pearson Education, Inc.. Fighting Autism. Retrieved September 15, 2008, from Fighting Autism Web site: http://www.fightingautism.org/index.php Autism. Retrieved September 15, 2008, from Autism Web site: http://www.yourautismfacts.com/ Wallin, Jason M. (2001-2004). Teaching Children with Autism. Retrieved September 15, 2008, from Teaching Children with Autism Web site: http://www.polyxo.com/assessment/index.html (2007-2008). Autism Research Institute. Retrieved September 15, 2008, from Defeat Autism Now Web site: http://www.autism.com/index.asp

15. Thought Provoking Questions 1. Do you know what it is like to have a teacher say “I don’t want this student in my class?” How would you feel if that was your child? 2. Do you know what it is like to have kids point to a child with Autism and laugh at the child as he/she rocks and parrots over and over? How would you feel if that was your child? 3. Do you know what it is like to wonder what the child with Autism will do when the parent dies? What are we, as an island community, doing for the people with special needs?