Learning, Living, and Working with Asperger Syndrome (AS)
Description
Learning, Living, and Working with Persons with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) is a 5 ½ hour workshop (excluding registration, breaks, and lunch) designed to introduce educators, parents, and service providers to the characteristics of AS and effective strategies that can be used to support these individuals across environments.
Information included in the presentation was obtained from a variety of sources including journal articles, books, conferences, and the experience of those charged with creating this workshop. Every attempt was made to ensure the accuracy and impartiality of the information included in this guide. It is not our intention to support the importance or efficacy of any particular educational or therapeutic approach over any other approach.
Intended Audience
Participants in this workshop should have a basic understanding of AS. The information is appropriate for anyone interested in supporting individuals with AS. This may include:
- Parents of individuals with AS
- Administrators
- General and special educators
- Paraprofessionals
- Therapists
- Community service providers
- Adult service providers
Layout of the Training
This training will require 5 ½ hours of instruction and is to be delivered in one day. In order to keep this workshop interactive, it is best to keep the attendance to 50 or less. This is a participatory training; therefore, seating should be at tables.
Presenters
Presenters must be knowledgeable about the characteristics of AS and must have knowledge and experience with implementing supports and strategies across home, school, and post-secondary experiences. Presenters should also be familiar with resources available to individuals with AS, their families, and providers.
Training Schedule
The workshop is divided into two main sections. The morning section addresses the definition, characteristics, and core deficits. The afternoon section addresses strategies that can be applied in the classroom or the workplace as well as strategies to address communication and social functioning across environments.
Within the speakers’ notes you will find suggestions for the length of time to spend on activities and slides based on our experience with this material. A fifteen minute break in the morning and afternoon and a 45 lunch break mid-day are suggested. These can be adjusted depending on your audience. Given individual presenter’s styles, audience participation, and other factors that may interfere with workshop timing, the times listed are approximate. Below is the recommended schedule:
- Definition and Characteristics 1.5 hours
- Affect of the Core Deficit: Child to Adult 1.25 hours
- Strategies for Success 2.5 hours
- Closing .25 hour
Materials Required
The presentation materials are available from the T/TAC library at VCU. If interested in presenting, a DVD can be sent to you. The DVD will contain the handouts, PPT, and video clips. Keep in mind that you will need to make arrangements to get the materials by calling 804.827.1414 at least two weeks in advance of the training.
Keep in mind that you will need to make arrangements to get the materials by calling 804.827.1414 at least two weeks in advance of the training or submitting a VAC Training Request form.