Asperger's Syndrome Strategies
Strategies for working with people with Asperger’s Syndrome
Routine: Any changes to routine must be passed on ahead of time, where possible
· Timetable
· Rooms
· Lecturers
· Support Staff
· Deadlines
Use of Language:
· Explain all instructions and give reasons why tasks are being carried out
· Grade language for level of learners
Literal understanding
Reduce amount of idiomatic, metaphorical, abstract or “jokey” language with learners or be prepared to provide explanations for jokes!
Body Language:
· People with Asperger’s Syndrome can find facial expressions hard to interpret.
· Do not assume because you give “that look” the learner will know to quiet down. Make the implicit, explicit.
Learning Style:
• People with Asperger’s Syndrome tend to be Visual Learners
• Use images/graphics to back up verbal description
Empathy:
People with Asperger’s Syndrome may find it difficult to empathise with peers resulting in:
• Isolation
• Open to bullying
• May find group work hard
• Role playing activities maybe difficult
• May become easily distracted due to inability to shut out irrelevant stimuli
Be aware and plan activities with this in mind.
Explanations
• Try using the Socratic method
– Used in its simplest form: How? Why?
• Be clear and concise
• Use social stories
• Check understanding
• Stay on point and don’t use abstract analogies
Consistency:
• Aims and Objectives set at the beginning of the session and reviewed at the end
• Holistic approach
• Follow your own rules and stick to them
• Always allow time for a response:
– Average time for a Neuro-typical response = 3 seconds
– Average time for an person with Asperger’s to respond = up to 10 seconds
MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF TEACHING SOMEONE WITH ASPERGER’S SYNDROME...
Get to know your student:
· Talk to your learner and their LSA/OCS Lecturer
· Find out their interests, makes explanations SO much easier
· Empathise with them