Case Study: Supporting Students with an Autistics Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication and by restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior. there is increasing concern about how to teach and support students with autism in the school environment and how to meet the best of their needs. Teachers are required to demonstrate programming and planning that accommodates all learners. The aim of this case report is to demonstrate how to cater to the teaching and learning needs of a young student with autism in a mainstream school.The Method of this case study is a 6 years old boy were three strategies used for 1 year; (1) Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH) program, (2) Antecedent Strategies in the Classroom (ASC) , and (3) visual cues program (VCP). The Results as the following; (A)TEACCH: Increasing Ahmad’s participation in class activities has the added benefit of increasing his social acceptance amongst his peers and improving his overall social skills. (B) ASC: Ahmad begin to spend more time sitting on the mat and participating in activities, rather than actively walking around the classroom and being disruptive. (C) VCP: Assist Ahmad to develop his play skills and improves his friendships thereby facilitating social inclusion in the school environment. (D) (Collaboration and Partnerships: The role of the teacher needs to be as an equal as partner with Ahmad’s parents, not professional as expert, in order to facilitate a successful partnership. As a Conclusion; Effective collaboration amongst key stakeholders is important in addressing the difficulties experienced by students with ASD in order to support and improve their participation and engagement within the school environment and also within the wider community.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder, supporting students, programs, strategies, Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children, Antecedent Strategies in the Classroom, visual cues program.

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/10-5-06