Course update: Supporting children on the autism spectrum - Blog - CPD Learning & Professional Development Tips at Laser Short Courses: Course update: Supporting children on the autism spectrum

Course update: Supporting children on the autism spectrum

Thursday 11th April, 2024

Following feedback from our learners and a thorough review of the course – we have decided to update our Autism course (now titled ‘Supporting children on the autism spectrum’) and remove our course on Asperger’s Syndrome.



Asperger’s Syndrome is no longer used as a diagnostic term due to significant overlap with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the controversial history of Hans Asperger, whose work influenced the introduction of the term. The characteristics and traits of Asperger’s Syndrome would now fall into the diagnostic ASD Level 1: Requires (minimal) support.



It should no longer be used as a diagnostic term, however, some people continue to describe themselves as having Asperger’s Syndrome as they see it as part of their identity in a way that is not connected to the diagnostic terminology or its historical context.



Individuals have a right to self-describe in a way that they feel best describes them or they feel most comfortable with, and if in doubt – ask!



Our updated course on Supporting children on the autism spectrum now includes a reading text on getting the language right when talking about autism, and additional resources on the autism spectrum.



Anyone who had the Asperger Syndrome course on their Laser Short Course account will no longer be able to access it. Please do get in touch with us and we will be happy to swap it for the Autism Spectrum course.



If you would like to talk to us about this or you have any feedback about any of our other courses, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team. We are always open to feedback and our commitment to lifelong learning includes us too!



Contact us

P: 01753 584 112

E: info@laserlearning.oc.uk