Fifteen years ago, the incidence of autism was believed to be 1 in 5,000.   According to the most recent child count data released by Indiana’s Division of Exceptional Learners, the current incidence reflects 1 in 200 students being served under the autism spectrum diagnosis.  This dramatic increase has placed a tremendous strain on educators and families who struggle to support and educate these complex individuals.  In this module, the user will obtain information about autism spectrum disorders, including a discussion of the processing involved in obtaining a diagnosis, core characteristics, and additional characteristics of these individuals.  

At the completion of this module, the user will be able to: 

Ø      Gain knowledge about the process for assessing and diagnosing an autism spectrum disorder;  

Ø      Discuss the potential causes for autism spectrum disorders; and 

Ø      Understand the core and additional characteristics associated with autism spectrum disorders.

IPSB Standard #11A:

The educator of students with exceptional needs has an in-depth understanding of the unique characteristics and specialized needs of students with severe and multiple disabilities and the implications on the academic, social, and emotional planning necessary to support continuous skill development and to maximize independence.

1.  Study the narrative section of the module. Visit websites within the narrative section. 
    
2. Review videos and books listed on the Indiana Resource Center for Autism website at www.iidc.indiana.edu/irca 
    
3. Develop a two-page document highlighting how the characteristics described in the module impact a specific individual with the diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder. .