1 Autism: what have you learned?
Now try the following activity.
Activity 1 Reflect on what you have learned
Use the space below to note key things that you have learned about autism so far in the course. You might want to check back to the notes you made for the same exercise in Week 1, Activity 1 [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] . In what ways has your understanding changed most? What do you consider to be the most important insights you have gained?
Discussion
Here are some key points you may have noted:
Understanding autism should have helped you to gain a wider knowledge of what autism is, and how it affects children and adults across the lifespan. You have learned how the concept of autism has changed, and with it the tools used to diagnose it. You have considered how the impact and experience of autism varies between individuals, and how perceptions of autism may be affected by cultural context. You have looked at explanations of the causes of autism, and at the benefits and drawbacks of different approaches to intervention and support. You have considered how autism may affect families, and looked at the particular challenges of adulthood. You have also learned that autistic people have strengths and skills, and need scope to fulfil their potential.
Now we will reflect further on some key themes, ongoing issues and implications for the future.