Course description
This upper-level undergraduate course explores Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) from a lifespan perspective applying behavioural, social, and cognitive theories. Topics include diagnostic characteristics and the diagnostic process in British Columbia, the etiology, history, and co-morbid conditions associated with ASD. Special emphasis will be given to evidence-based interventions and support strategies within early intervention, school, and employment settings.
Course content
The following global ideas guide the design and delivery of this course:
- The best place for children to thrive, grow, and learn is with a family.
- ASD is a lifelong developmental disorder.
- Funding options are available for assessment and intervention.
- Assessment and intervention methods should be based on contemporary best practices.
- Best practices are those that are (a) evidence-based, (b) individualized, (c) tailored to individuals’ and families’ needs, and (d) ethical.
- The capacity of an individual with ASD is best supported through the teaching of language and other social skills.
- Language and other social skills are most effectively analyzed and taught using a functional approach.
- Autism intervention is not static; rather, it is dynamic—a process that becomes evident when examined within a historical context.
Learning activities
In this course, students engage in a variety of learning activities such as lectures, group work, case studies, self-reflection, and team-based exercises.
Means of assessment
Means of assessment may include:
- Weekly reading quizzes
- Academic research paper
- Case studies
- Group presentation
- Exams
Instructors may use a student’s record of attendance and/or level of active participation as part of the student’s graded performance. Expectations and grade calculations regarding class attendance and participation will be clearly defined in the instructor's course outline/syllabus.
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Describe the etiology, assessment, diagnosis, and funding for ASD within the BC context.
- Consider the historical treatment of individuals with ASD and their families.
- Summarize the diagnostic indicators of ASD and explain developmental differences in individuals across the lifespan.
- Explore contemporary assessment tools and funding options available for individuals diagnosed as children or adults.
2. Evaluate evidence-based methodologies and interventions for individuals on the autism spectrum.
- Compare pseudoscientific and anti-scientific models with evidence-based methodologies.
- Examine behavioral, social, and cognitive theories of autism and their impact on practice.
- Analyze behavioral outcomes associated with different intervention models.
- Summarize significant peer-reviewed research on intervention practices.
3. Analyze a range of lifespan issues related to social/emotional, communication/language, and behavioral domains.
- Evaluate behavioral interpretations of complex social behaviour impacting relationships in preschool, school, community, and employment settings.
- Review common mental and physical health conditions associated with autism, such as seizures, anxiety, and depression.
- Examine tensions regarding autism from the perspectives of cure, treatment, acceptance, and celebration.
Textbook materials
A list of required and recommended reading will be provided for students at the beginning of the semester. Instructors are committed to prioritizing OER and publicly accessible resources.