Learning Characteristics of Autism

The learning characteristics of autism should be identified and recognized by those who are working with or involved in the care of autistic children.

Special education teachers are often very familiar with the learning characteristics of autism, but general education teachers may not be so well-informed. Because learning styles can vary from student to student, it is imperative that these characteristics and the particular learning strategies that apply to them are understood and implemented.

The challenges that autistic children face in an academic environment are numerous. While other children may exhibit little difficulty with the changes, distractions, and constant interaction on a daily basis, children with autism often themselves experiencing difficulty performing and staying on task. It is important to understand the learning characteristics of autism so that these children have the best chance of finding success in the classroom. What are these characteristics? Again, they can vary from one child to the next, and the varying characteristics are often directly related to where a child's symptoms fall on the autism spectrum.

The following is a common listing of learning characteristics associated with autistic children:

• Visual Learners-Many autistic children are visual learners. However, there is a method to this visual learning. Pictures and other visual aids cannot be shown in rapid succession as it often takes these children longer periods of time to process what they have seen. Instead, use pictures, slides, posters, etc. that will remain in view for longer periods of time. For younger children, actual items are often easier for them to visually process than pictures. When possible, use the actual item first, then move on to a picture of that item. Obviously, this won't always work in the classroom, but it is an excellent method for teaching a child with autism.
• Haptic Modality-Haptic modality is a term that you may or may not be familiar with. In essence, it refers to a hands-on style of learning. Children with autism are often very sensitive to tactile experiences, and they often want to touch virtually everything in sight. As an educator, you can play on this need by providing plenty of learning experiences through the sense of touch. Have lots of common items on hand for them to manipulate. If you are practicing math skills, give them items to count. If you are reviewing for a science test, let them see and hold applicable objects, such as microscopes, test tubes, etc.
• Categorizing-Learning to categorize is an important learning characteristic for any child, but it is especially important for autistic children. Older children can be given a planner to write down assignments and other appointments and events. Teachers may have to prompt them to write down their assignments at the end of every period or every day, but keeping an organized planner can help these students remain on track.
• Talking to Self-While obviously, you cannot allow children to talk to themselves in a loud and/or distracting voice during your class, they can learn to talk quietly to themselves. This is a skill that they must be taught to do. Self-talking can help a child organize his thoughts and keep him focused on his assignments. You will need to practice with him, however, on when it is appropriate and how he can talk to himself in a very low whisper.

Finally, keep in mind that each child is a unique individual, and he may not respond to each of these strategies as expected. Keep trying different strategies within the classroom, eliminate as many distractions as possible, and above all, keep the lines of communication open with other teachers and of course his parents or guardians. With patience and persistence, you and your autistic children can create success in the classroom.

• Preschool Activities for Autistic Children
• Possible Causes of Autism
• Tips for Raising Kids with Autism
• What Is Your Autism Empathy Rating?

• Lesson Plans for Autistic Children
• Adult Autism Symptoms
• Social Skills Activities for Kids with Autism
• Speech Therapy Ideas for Autistic Children
• Famous Autistic People

• How to Teach Autistic Children
• Childhood Autism Rating Scale
• Autism and Video Modeling
• Physical Characteristics of Autism
• Physical Characteristics of Children with Autism