Learning Differences: Asperger Syndrome

By Author: James Patrick
Total Articles: 6
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Aspergers syndrome is considered an autism spectrum disorder – individuals can experience mild or severe symptoms or behaviours, which are shared on a continuum of the condition. Aspergers is generally characterized by a pattern of behaviours that include difficulties with social interaction, narrow or focused areas of interest and activities, rigid or repetitive habits and routines, problems with non-verbal communication, and difficulties with fine and gross motor control. That being said, people with Aspergers also tend to have average to superior intellectual capacity, excellent memories, and highly developed talents in particular areas or interests.

Social interactions can be quite problematic for individuals with Aspergers syndrome. Since people with Aspergers often fail to recognize body language and non-verbal cues they may have difficulties with negotiating acceptable boundaries for personal space, or they may not be able to discern an appropriate time to start or end a conversation. They may also encounter difficulties in social conversations because of their monotone verbal delivery, or sometimes an inability ...
... to control the volume of their voice.

Many individuals with Aspergers syndrome struggle in a school, or classroom setting, not because of the intellectual demands, but rather as a result of the social interactions and skills required. It is not uncommon for students with Aspergers to suffer at the hands of bullies, because of their inability to read non-verbal or social cues and perceived ‘differences’. As such, it is extremely important that educators practice inclusive teaching to cultivate safe and diverse classrooms where caring, tolerance, mutual respect and understanding are the paramount guidelines.

For more information about Aspergers syndrome, visit The Aspergers Society of Ontario’s website http://bit.ly/1HTv5B.

For information about academic support for students with Aspergers, visit www.ruthrumack.com or call 416- 925-1225.

James Patrick is a teacher in University of Toronto and social worker who is running various literacy program to improve the educational skills of students. He has represented his University and country in various seminars. Right now he is busy writing a book about the human behaviour and ways of learning and also taking special Kid Art Classes for the overall growth of the children.