The Autistic Spectrum OpenCourseWare: The Open University's Free Undergraduate Health Studies Course on Autism

Published Feb 13, 2009

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Students examine psychological research in order to better understand Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and learn methods of helping people with this disorder in 'Autistic Spectrum (From Theory to Practice)' OpenCourseWare. The free undergraduate course is offered by The Open University and requires students to spend at least 20 hours of study time into the course material.

Autistic Spectrum (From Theory to Practice): Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
Undergraduate Yes No No Yes

Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
Yes Yes No

Autistic Spectrum (From Theory to Practice): Course Description

In 'Autistic Spectrum (From Theory to Practice)' OpenCourseWare, students can learn more about autism, such as identifying, diagnosing, treating and understanding the disorder. The free course provides a detailed description and definition of the words 'autism' and 'autism spectrum disorders' (ASD). The course material explains how people with ASD have a difficult time with communication and language, social activities and behavior patterns. It also gives students a historical background on the research involved with ASD by two doctors, Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger, who helped bring more research into this disorder. Students also study the different effects of ASD between males and females. The OpenCourseWare describes the cognitive complexities of autism spectrum disorder individuals and how the disorders can lead them to having special talents or skills, such as exceptional math techniques or fast puzzle-solving abilities. Students in this course study the history of ASD and read about people who have the disorder or family members who live with someone with the disorder and how they coped with it. The free course has figures, charts and definitions that allow students to gain an understanding of autism spectrum disorders on a biological and social level.

This OpenCourseWare includes study materials. If you are interested in taking this free course, visit the autistic spectrum course page.

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