Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders: Treatment and Education

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders: Treatment and Education

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), equipping educators, psychologists, speech therapists, and youth workers with practical skills for effective support.

Course Description

topics

  • New learning and teaching methods and approaches
  • Physical and mental health, well-being
  • Inclusion, promoting equality and non-discrimination
  • Disabilities

dates

15-19/07/2024, 22-26/07/2024, 05-09/08/2024, 19-23/08/2024

Course Calendar

target audience

Teachers, psychologists, speech therapists, and youth workers seeking practical expertise in supporting individuals with ASD.

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), equipping educators, psychologists, speech therapists, and youth workers with practical skills for effective support. Participants will delve into the nature of ASD, explore psychological theories, and gain insights into therapeutic approaches. Emphasizing real-world applications, the program includes educational strategies and family support, aiming to empower professionals in their role.

 

Objectives:

 

  • Develop a nuanced understanding of autism’s nature and symptoms.
  • Gain insights into childhood development and its implications for individuals with ASD.
  • Acquire knowledge of developmental, cognitive, and behavioral theories related to ASD.
  • Proficiency in applying therapeutic approaches tailored to varying severity levels.
  • Attain skills in organizing effective educational activities for individuals with ASD.
  • Strategize and implement family support measures for individuals with ASD.

A comprehensive understanding of autism’s nature and symptoms.

Insight into childhood development and its implications for ASD.

Knowledge of developmental, cognitive, and behavioral theories related to ASD.

Proficiency in therapeutic approaches tailored to varying severity levels.

Skills in organizing effective educational activities for individuals with ASD.

Strategies for providing family support for individuals with ASD.

Daily Program

Day 1: Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Welcome and Ice-breaking activities.
  • Overview of ASD: “What does ‘spectrum’ mean?”
  • Core symptoms of ASD and their manifestation in everyday life.
  • Experiential exercises to understand symptoms.
  • History of autism and Asperger’s syndrome.
  • Diagnostic criteria and assessment tools.
Day 2: Psychological Theories and Sensory Issues
  • Psychological Theories of Autism: Theory of mind, Central Coherence Theory, Executive dysfunction.
  • Adapting theories in clinical practice and the classroom.
  • Workshop on sensory sensitivities and their impact.
  • Group discussions on addressing sensory issues.
Day 3: Behavioral and Educational Interventions
  • Evidence-based interventions and behavioral strategies.
  • Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and support in educational settings.
  • Hands-on workshop: Implementing behavioral strategies.
  • Case studies on effective educational interventions.
Day 4: Supporting Social Skills and Communication
  • Building social skills and fostering friendships.
  • Communication differences and alternative communication methods.
  • Practical activities for supporting social skills.
  • Guest speaker session on alternative communication methods.
Day 5: Transitioning to Adulthood and Family Support
  • Planning for transitions: education, employment, and independent living.
  • Support systems and resources for adults with ASD.
  • Group activities addressing family support issues.
  • Workshops, Information Sessions, and Stress Management Workshops.
  • Closing ceremony, certificate distribution, and celebration.

 

*subject to small adaptations, upon availability

School Visit and Observation

Participants will visit a local school implementing inclusive practices for students with ASD. This activity offers firsthand observations of classroom settings, teaching strategies, and educator-student interactions.

Clinical Observation at Autism Center

A visit to a specialized autism center or clinic provides participants with the opportunity to observe therapeutic interventions and gain practical insights into the application of ASD-related theories.

Community Engagement Session

Participants engage with individuals with ASD in a community setting, fostering a hands-on understanding of social skills and communication strategies through participation in community events.

Educational Workshop at a Supportive School

Collaborating with a school that excels in supporting students with ASD, participants attend an interactive workshop to learn from educators and specialists about organizing effective educational activities and implementing IEPs and interventions.

Assessment Methods

Assessment is continuous with formative and summative methods throughout the training.

Formative

Group Discussions and Reflections
Scenario Analysis Worksheets
Peer Teaching Observations
Interactive Quizzes

Summative

Pre- and Post-Tests
Individual Reflection Paper
Presentations
Scenario Analysis

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Teaching Methods

  • Lectures

    Engaging lectures providing theoretical foundations and insights into ASD.

  • Workshops

    Hands-on workshops allowing participants to actively apply and practice strategies.

  • Group Discussions

    Small and large group discussions to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaborative learning.

  • Case Studies

    Analysis of real-world case studies to explore effective ASD teaching and treating practices.

  • Guest Speaker Sessions

    Inviting guest speakers, such as psychologists and experienced educators, to share practical experiences.

  • Scenario Analysis

    Interactive sessions where participants analyze teaching scenarios and discuss potential solutions.

Certification

Upon successful completion of our courses, participants receive recognition in the form of certificates.

Recognizing your active participation, the Certificate of Attendance is awarded upon completing the course. It signifies your commitment to the learning journey and showcases your engagement with the course content.

Certificate of Attendance

by SISERA Greece

Europass Certification goes beyond acknowledgment; it aligns with European standards for transparency and recognition of skills and qualifications. This internationally recognized certification enhances your profile and opens doors to opportunities on a global scale.

Europass Certification