ED629 Social Communication and Autism

Pragmatics, often referred to as social communication, relates to how one interprets and uses language within a social context. It is the implicit meaning of our communication rather than the explicit meaning. Individuals with autism have varying social communication deficits, thus, require individualized instruction and specific strategies and supports to make gains in this area. This course will be devoted to a discussion of pragmatics and what the teacher, parent, or community member needs to know. Topics to be covered include how language impacts pragmatics, typical and atypical development of social communication, current research, treatment options, and social and educational impact in school, at home and in the community. Pre-req: ED 509, ED 540, ED 541, ED 511 or permission of instructor/Director of Education.