Welcome to Differentiating Curriculum for Autism Students

Over the past 40 years, there appears to have been a steady increase in the number of children/young people diagnosed with autism. This may be due to improved diagnostic tests, widening of the diagnostic criteria, less stigmatisation of the condition and an increased awareness from health professionals and families alike (Baron-Cohen et al, 2009).

Individual students who have autism have his/her own unique strengths, abilities and needs. Therefore it is essential that teachers adapt lessons and activities within the curriculum to capitalise on and meet these diverse strengths and needs. This is in line with what is required of educators under the Disability Standards of Education (2005). Differentiating lessons for students with autism is vital so that students with this unique condition can reach their full potential. This ensures that we are providing access and equity to all students by ensuring that the curriculum is available to them in an inclusive way.

This course will show you how you can tweak your lessons to cater to students with autism (and other learning needs) and create a success based learning environment.

What is this course about?

• This course is for anyone who would like to learn how to differentiate lessons for students who are on the autism spectrum.
• You will also be provided with some understanding about the autism condition and how it can affect learning.

By the end of this course, you will have:

• Acquired more information about autism and how it affects student learning
• Some understanding about what differentiation is, and how you as the teacher can employ strategies in the classroom that can reach a range of students
• Acquired strategies and resources to add to your teacher toolbox to better teach students on the autism spectrum

We hope you will enjoy this learning experience. You can pace yourself, take your time to consider the content, and reflect on your own teaching experiences in a much more relaxed way.