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What are the Effects of Autism on Learning?

Brian Marchetti
Brian Marchetti

The affects of autism on learning are numerous and normally manifest by impairing language and social interactions, along with causing repetitive behavior and limited interests. In most cases autistic children possess the ability to learn but do not normally perform well in typical classrooms. The education of most autistic children requires specialized programs tailored specifically for the individual student. Categorized as a developmental neural disorder, autism affects the way the brain stores and organizes information. Little is understood about this process or its cause.

Children without autism learn from their environment without intervention. This typically involves learning language and social behaviors. Those who suffer from autism learn very little from their surroundings. They normally do not develop social skills and isolate themselves from others. Learning typically requires a highly-structured environment with specific one-on-one instruction.

Many children who have Asperger's syndrome are highly intelligent.
Many children who have Asperger's syndrome are highly intelligent.

The effects of autism on learning often involve an autistic child's impaired ability to communicate. Whether due to a lack of language skills or the inability to engage in appropriate social behavior, the inability to communicate with "normal" children often results in an autistic child's lack of interest in their surroundings. This behavior can contribute to a failure to learn through imitation, which is how most children begin the learning process. Oftentimes, the effect of autism on learning requires more of a cause and effect teaching strategy rather than imitation. For example, a child without autism may be able to mimic his parent's words "orange" when mom holds up an orange and make a connection between the two, whereas an autistic child may need to actually touch the orange to make the connection.

Occupational therapy is often used to help children with autism to improve their ability to move their bodies so they can use scissors, ride tricycles and catch balls.
Occupational therapy is often used to help children with autism to improve their ability to move their bodies so they can use scissors, ride tricycles and catch balls.

Sometimes the learning environment may contribute to the effects of autism on learning as well. Many autistic children can be overwhelmed by loud classrooms with bright, colorful decor. This is sometimes referred to as "sensory overload." The surroundings may be so distracting for an autistic child that he is unable to process any further information.

Children with autism are more prone to emotional outbursts.
Children with autism are more prone to emotional outbursts.

Every autistic child's barriers to learning may be different, making it difficult to develop programs that will work for everyone. To counter the effects of autism on learning, parents and teachers work to develop customized strategies and instructional programs based on the child’s specific needs and abilities. Working to design a learning environment directed toward these individual needs can further improve a child’s chances to learn and become independent. Research has shown that early intervention and working to develop learning skills at the youngest age possible can help curb the effects of autism on learning.

Autistic children have a difficult time interpreting other people's facial expression.
Autistic children have a difficult time interpreting other people's facial expression.

Teachers use a variety of techniques in order to effectively lessen the effect of autism on learning. It is common for an autistic child to lack the ability to process information from multiple senses. A teacher may separate their methods of instruction, using visual aids and then offering auditory instruction in a lecture. New studies also are indicating that inclusion programs may be effective as well. These programs set up regular classrooms to accommodate autistic students in the same classes as "regular" students. This is proving to be very helpful in making autistic children feel accepted and part of the group, which is proving to go a long way toward improving the effects of autism on learning.

Discussion Comments

Spotiche5

@rundocuri- That is a great observation. Children with autism often have difficulties filtering out all of the activities that take place at school, which can drastically affect learning. However, they know when their parents care, and it makes a world of difference when it comes to their learning experiences.

Rundocuri

I have a nephew who is autistic, and he has done fairly well at school in a specially-structured program. The teachers are very patient, and use techniques that are tailored towards his needs. However, I don't think that he would be doing as well as he is without his parents' close attention to his classroom setting and curriculum.

Though it is important that all parents are involved in their children's education, parents of autistic children must be extra vigilant. By staying in touch with educators, observing these children at school, and addressing problems when they occur, the parents of autistic children will help ensure that their kids progress and learn.

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    • Many children who have Asperger's syndrome are highly intelligent.
      By: Igor Mojzes
      Many children who have Asperger's syndrome are highly intelligent.
    • Occupational therapy is often used to help children with autism to improve their ability to move their bodies so they can use scissors, ride tricycles and catch balls.
      By: g215
      Occupational therapy is often used to help children with autism to improve their ability to move their bodies so they can use scissors, ride tricycles and catch balls.
    • Children with autism are more prone to emotional outbursts.
      By: Ilike
      Children with autism are more prone to emotional outbursts.
    • Autistic children have a difficult time interpreting other people's facial expression.
      By: sneksy13
      Autistic children have a difficult time interpreting other people's facial expression.
    • People with Autism might engage in different creative activities as a form of therapy.
      By: Photoman
      People with Autism might engage in different creative activities as a form of therapy.
    • Common signs of a mild delay in intellectual development usually manifest in the areas of learning and intelligence.
      By: micromonkey
      Common signs of a mild delay in intellectual development usually manifest in the areas of learning and intelligence.
    • Someone with Autism may have difficulties focusing on tasks at school.
      By: Rido
      Someone with Autism may have difficulties focusing on tasks at school.