Children on The Spectrum: Their Odyssey of Language Learning

Abstract

Language learning is considered as one of the essentials in the life development and growth of an individual. As for typical learners, English language acquisition process varies depending on the learners’ preferences and styles. Whereas, children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder apparently has different styles and routines of learning. There have been many past literatures on the language learning styles of normal learners but not much on the journey of Autism children’s language learning. Due to that, this study describes a reflective journey of a fieldwork in two Autism Centres. Observations were conducted to investigate the learning style of learners on the spectrum, or also known as children with Autism. This study highlights the environment condition of the centres, the facilities provided and the journey of their learning process. Further interview session was also conducted with the Operational Therapists at the centre for depth understanding of the children on the spectrum’s life and journey.