TEACCH Intervention for Autism

Abstract

Education is one of the fundamental factors for development. It enriches people’s understanding of themselves and the world. It improves quality of life and leads to broad social benefits to the people and society. Education raises people’s productivity, creativity and promotes entrepreneurship and technological advances. No country can achieve sustainable economic development without investing in education. The ultimate goal of education is to help a person become responsible, independent, and contributing member of the community to which he or she belongs. For children with special educational needs, education aims to maximize their potential and help them become well adjusted individuals. Autism is a developmental disorder that affects a child’s perception of the world and how the child learns from his or her experiences. Even among the most complex disabilities, autism remains an enigma. Autism is the most frequently occurring form of a group of disorders known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The Autism Society of America (2006) defines autism as a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults typically show difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. One should keep in mind however; that autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees. Autism affects essential human behaviors such as social interaction, ability to communicate ideas and feelings, imagination, and establishment of relationships with others (National Research Council, 2002). Children with autism may also show abnormal responses to sensory stimuli, such as touch, sounds and sights. There are several goals for the education of children with autism. These goals emerge from the universal belief in education for all children and what can be taught to children with autism. Education provides opportunities for acquiring knowledge and abilities that enhance personal independence and socially responsible behaviour. In comparison with neurotypical children, a child with ASD may need to be taught different behaviours in order to manifest independence and responsible participation in the community. Neurotypical children learn many behaviours without direct teaching, but this is not so with children who have autism. A young autistic child may have rote learned to count but may not be able to name things that he uses daily. As he grows older, he may be able to operate electronic equipment but not be able to dress appropriately. Hence, educational goals for