November 16, 2016

New degree helps create learning environments for individuals on the autism spectrum

Graduate Certificate one of only two in Australia to focus on autism through the lifespan 

The University of Wollongong (UOW) will offer a Graduate Certificate in Autism next year with the aim of preparing professionals and parents to create learning environments and programs for individuals on the autism spectrum as they move between home, community, school and employment settings.

It will also provide a pathway for students who wish to move into further qualifications or research in the autism field.

The number of people on the autism spectrum has risen steadily over the past few decades. Currently the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals that approximately 1 in 63 Australian school children have an autism diagnosis.

Dr Amanda Webster, Senior Lecturer in UOW’s School of Education, said the degree would offer graduates a greater understanding of the perspectives, strengths and needs of individuals on the autism spectrum and the knowledge about the latest research on strategies that will help them achieve their learning and employment goals.

“As rates of autism have grown in the community, so too has the demand for services and tools on how to accommodate the different needs of individuals on the autism spectrum, in the classroom, in the workforce, in the home, and in the community,” she said.

“The demand for specialist training in this area cuts across all sectors of society, from education and health to employment and community programs. By creating the right learning contexts in school and workplace settings, we can alter the poor educational and employment outcomes that individuals on the autism spectrum currently experience, and help them to achieve their goals and realise their potential.”

Dr Webster, who will oversee the degree, has extensive experience in the autism education field. Her research has focused on creating inclusive and supportive learning and school communities for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

Dr Webster is the co-author of a new book, Empowering Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, which has recently been published.

The book presents a international research-based framework that has empowered parents of children with autism spectrum disorder to actively guide their child’s learning, decision making, and self advocacy.

UOW is one of only two universities in Australia offering a specialist degree that focuses on autism through the lifespan.

The degree is aimed at parents and professionals who wish to further their knowledge and skills to work more effectively with individuals on the autism spectrum including: primary, secondary, early childhood and specialist teachers; psychologists and social workers; speech pathologists, occupational therapists, nurses, and physicians, government leaders and policy makers; parents and carers; and individuals who are themselves on the autism spectrum. 

Photo: Dr Amanda Webster from UOW's School of Education. Credit: Paul Jones