This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module will describe the research basis and application of interventions in autism. It will critically consider the effectiveness of interventions, including early behavioural interventions and other specific approaches, for example Sonrise, Relationship Development Intervention, and interventions designed for co-occurring neurodevelopmental conditions, as well as the use of and the practical application of non-specific intervention therapies such as music therapy, art therapy, daily life therapy, social skills teaching, diets and treatments used to address sensory/perceptual problems.
Total contact hours: 40
Private study hours: 260
Total study hours: 300
Autism Studies – BSc – compulsory module
Autism Studies – Diploma – compulsory module
Main assessment methods
Assignment/case study (4000 words) - 50%
Assignment/intervention review (2000 words) – 25%
Examination(1 hour) – 25%
Reassessment methods
Like-for-like
Charman T. & Howlin, P. (2003) Research into Early Intervention for Children with Autism and Related Disorders: Methodological and Design Issues. Autism: International Journal of Research and Practice, 7, 217-225.
Fleming, B., Hurley, E. & Goth, T. (2015) Choosing Autism Interventions: A Research-Based Guide. Brighton: Pavilion Publishing.
Lai, M.C., Lombardo, M.V. and Baron-Cohen, S. (2014) Autism. Lancet, 383, 896–910.
Rogers, S.J. (1998) Empirically Supported Comprehensive Treatments for Young Children with Autism. Journal of Clinical Child Psychology, 27(2), 168-179.
Schopler, E. (2001) Treatment for Autism: From Science to Pseudo-Science or Antiscience. In The Research Basis for Autism Intervention. E. Schopler, N. Yirmiya, C. Shulman and L. M. Marcus (eds.). New York: Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers.
Vasa, R.A., Carroll, L.M., Nozzolillo, A.A., Mahajan, R., Mazurek, M.O., Bennett, A.E., & Bernal, M.P. (2014) A Systematic Review of Treatments for Anxiety in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 44(12), 3215-3229.
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Demonstrate knowledge regarding ways to assess the research basis and effectiveness of interventions in autism
8.2 Understand the use of, and the practical application of, non-specific intervention approaches
8.3 Review and critically analyse the literature around intervention in autism spectrum conditions and other neurodevelopmental conditions, including early intervention and approaches based on applied behaviour analysis.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Show the capacity to draw critically on both published case studies, and their own experiences of intervention or evaluation strategies
9.2 Understand, and communicate complex, abstract concepts or data
9.3 Use information technology (word processing, email, internet use, online learning resources) effectively to complete tasks
9.4 Effectively manage time to successfully meet deadlines
9.5 Recognise issues relating to equality and diversity through the use of non-discriminatory language
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