Course Description

Sensory processing difficulties are prevalent in students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Problems in this area may underlie or exacerbate many of the social and behavioural difficulties observed in these students.
The course examines the sensory processing difficulties frequently associated with ASD, and will explore the sensory experience of the student by looking at their school environment and the things they do there

Anticipated Outcomes

• Gain an understanding of the ASD diagnosis from a sensory perspective.

• Gain an understanding of basic sensory integration theory and how it can be applied to support student ‘readiness for learning’.

• Gain an understanding of the impact of the environment (sensory and social) on learning and participation in school life.

Course Outline and Content

• Overview of the ASD diagnosis.

• Introduction to Sensory Integration Theory.

• Outline the sensory processing difficulties associated with students with ASD.

• Explore how Sensory Integration Theory can assist teachers in supporting student ‘readiness for learning’.

• Discuss the value of inter-professional collaboration in supporting students’ sensory needs.

• Consider the ASD student school experience by exploring the potential challenges posed by the school sensory and social environment.

Information for Applicants

The course is open to

• Teachers working in classes for student(s) with Autism in a mainstream setting
• Teachers in Special Schools who are currently working with student(s) with Autism
• Full-time Special Education Teachers who are currently working with student(s) with Autism
• Participants will require permission from the Board of Management to attend. Typically, substitution for this seminar will only be allowed to classroom teachers with primary responsibility for students with a special educational need and if it is deemed absolutely essential by the Principal
• Typically substitution will only be allocated to non - substitute teachers
• Payment is not available to teachers in a substitute capacity

Refreshments and lunch will be provided.