What will I learn on this module?
This module aims to facilitate learning and apply theory and best practices in behaviour self-management with individuals with autism. The module will help you to explore approaches to changing and developing new behaviour and the barriers to such implementation. In addition, it will enable you to identify and promote more independent and competent behaviour and address appropriate forms of practice towards individuals with autism. You will be encouraged to find ways to support people with autism to manage their behaviour increase their social repertoires and decrease behaviours which prevent them from maximising learning and achieving full participation in society. You will examine critically the reasons for behaviours which challenge those working with individuals with autism. You will analyse the relationships which exist between communication and behaviour including social-emotional issues. You will develop an increased understanding of sensory issues and the relationship with behaviour and learning. In addition, you will take part in a critical exploration of the issues involved in ensuring effective teaching and learning for children and adults on the autism spectrum. It will involve examining pertinent issues around teaching and learning. You will be encouraged to participate in the process of reflective practice, analysis of learning and social constructions of learning.
How will I learn on this module?
A range of teaching/learning strategies will be used throughout the module. Teaching methods will be geared to enabling you to gain appropriate skills in observation, formulation, evaluation, presentation and communication in order to use their knowledge in a practical way. Through the use of appropriate reflective methodology, you will examine critical issues raised by your exploration of behaviour pertinent to your own context and practice/experience, and consider potential development opportunities.
Topic overviews and key concepts will be addressed in lectures, seminars and workshops where active and collaborative learning will be promoted in order to draw on the range of experience of the group and to allow you to contextualise new ideas and evidence into your own practice.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Your learning will be supported in a variety of ways. Personal and email access to tutor throughout the semester and individual feedback on first draft as requested. Individual written feedback on assignment.
Small group tutorials and seminars.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Identify and critically analyse function and impact of behaviour in autism
2. Understand the relationship between communication difficulties and sensory differences triggering behaviour in autism and the need for teaching interpersonal skills and the importance of lifelong learning.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
1. Evaluate the contribution and role of theories and modules of behaviour change in autism
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the strategies for managing behaviour change which reflects inclusive policy and practice.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
1. Enhance your communication skills via presentation and your written summative assessment
2. Developed research skills through preparation for your summative assignment.
How will I be assessed?
Formative
Presentation on an aspect of autism and behaviour which demonstrates understanding of the holistic and complex needs of people with autism (10 minutes)
Feedback
Feedback will be given verbally by tutor and peers.
Summative
Write an assignment which critically explores the causes, function and impact of behaviour in autism and demonstrate an understanding of approaches to support behaviour and learning. (4500 words)
MLOs KU1-2, IPSA1-2, PVA1 & 5
Feedback
Written feedback using criteria and grades.
Pre-requisite(s)
Students undertaking this module will normally have experience of working with children or adults with autism spectrum disorder in educational, health
Co-requisite(s)
TE7046 Understanding Autism (for those on MA Autism route)
Module abstract
This module will develop your understanding of the key concepts in behaviour and autism and how these impact on learning. In addition, it will enable you to identify and address appropriate forms of practice towards individuals with autism. You will be encouraged to find ways to support people with autism to self-manage their behaviour, increase their self-calming skills and their social repertoires and decrease behaviours which prevent them from maximising learning and achieving full participation in society
Course info
Credits 30
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time
Department Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing
Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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