A new online course from psychologists at the University of Bath is aiming to help parents and teachers of children on the autism spectrum, including advice for those facing huge upheaval in lockdown.
The free course ‘Good Practice in Autism Education’, which is offered by academics in the University’s Centre for Applied Autism Research, is conducted online over four weeks.
It is designed to give parents, carers and teachers more information on educational requirements of children on the autism spectrum, to reflect on what constitutes good practice in autism education settings, and to compare specific examples of good practice in autism education.
In view of the current situation many parents now find themselves in, home-schooling children, the researchers behind the MOOC (massive, open, online course) hope it can give parents with autistic children practical tips on getting through the next few months and beyond.
Director of the Centre for Applied Autism Research, Professor Mark Brosnan, explained: “The course has been designed to be accessible to the whole autism community.
“As well as a wide range of useful information and resources, there are discussion forums for parents and teachers to share their experiences with each other.
“In light of recent events, the course starts with top tips and a discussion around supporting children on the autism spectrum’s learning at home”.
Over four weeks, participants will learn more about autism and intellectual disabilities, developing an inclusive curriculum and good practice in autism education.
It will also provide an opportunity to share good practice with other learners.
You can access and sign up for the free, online course via https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/autism-education.
There are no prior educational requirements.