Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects language and behavior. Autism is also a state of mind that comes with many unique ways of thinking and seeing the world different from the neurotypical mind. Students will learn how autism was first discovered by Leo Kanner, Hans Asperger, and Lorna Wing. Dr. Wing’s landmark work conceptualized autism as a spectrum disorder with a Triad of Impairments.
Course content will show how Sally Ozonoff Ph.D., a developmental psychologist, is conducting research to identify autism and intervene as early as 12 months. A video from The Kennedy Krieger Institute will show differences in how normal vs autistic toddlers move through developmental milestones. Temple Grandin, author educator, and spokesperson for autism provides fascinating insights into autism through her work with animals.