Differentiated Instruction & Autism

One in 100 children has autism.

The Autism Society of America (ASA) reports that 1 percent of the U.S. population ages 3 to 17 have an autism spectrum disorder, making it the fastest growing developmental disability. Educators need adequate tools, such as differentiated instruction, to deal with this now common disorder among school-age children.

Autism Defined

Autism is a spectrum disorder, and every person with autism is as different as every person without autism. Some common signs, according the ASA, are difficulties in the areas of language and communication, social skills and sensory perceptions. These challenges can affect learning.

Differentiated Instruction

Teach the individual.

Differentiated instruction is an educational paradigm that adjusts teaching methods to the needs of the individual. Stephanie Bravmann, a retired professor of education, states that differentiated instruction is based on three principles: every child learns in his unique way, quality always trumps quantity, and one size does not fit all.

Language Challenges

Barbara T. Doyle, a clinical consultant, suggests talking less and listening more to deal with language challenges. When interacting with a student with autism, eye contact and other signs of listening may not be present. Speaking directly and concretely and allowing ample time for formulating responses can improve learning.

Visual Perceptions

Visual strategies are effective.

People with autism are often highly visual in how they perceive the world and how they learn. Teachers can use picture schedules and other visual strategies to instruct the child with autism.

Other Sensory Differences

Because of various sensory challenges, it is easy for a child with autism to become overwhelmed with sensory input. Doyle urges teachers to create an environment in which the child never has to divide attention between two or more activities at once, since such a situation compounds the potential problem of sensory overload.

References

• Autism Society of America: Characteristics of Autism
• Stephanie Bravmann: Two, Four, Six, Eight, Let's All Differentiate
• Barbara T. Doyle: Six Basic Instructional Strategies

Resources

• "Visual Supports for People with Autism: A Guide for Parents and Professionals"