Autism is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain.  Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.  Children and adults with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.  Asperger's Syndrome (AS) is considered a disorder at the higher end of the autistic continuum.

Accommodations may include

• extended time for exams, quiet testing area with a proctor
• note takers, readers, or tape recorders in class
• assistance in finding a group for group work

If you want to know more about Autism and Asperger's Syndrome...

Insistence on Sameness
Students with Asperger's Syndrome are easily overwhelmed by minimal change and are highly sensitive to environmental stressors.  They are anxious and tend to worry obsessively; stress fatigue and sensory overload easily throw them off balance.

Impairment in Social Interaction
Students may show an inability to understand complex rules of social interaction; may not like physical contact; talk at people instead of to them; use an unnatural tone of voice; are insensitive and lack tact; misinterpret social cues; have well-developed speech but poor communication; and usually have a desire to be part of the social world.

Restricted Range of Interests
Students have eccentric preoccupations or odd, intense fixations.  They tend to relentlessly "lecture" on areas of interest and sometimes refuse to learn about anything outside their limited field of interest.

Poor Concentration
Students with Asperger's Syndrome are often off track, distracted by external stimuli; are very disorganized; cannot figure out what is relevant; and have difficulty learning in group situations.

Poor Motor Coordination
Students are physically clumsy and awkward; are unsuccessful in games involving motor skills; and experience fine-motor deficits than can cause penmanship problems, slow clerical speed, and affect their ability to draw.

Academic Difficulties
Students with Asperger's Syndrome usually have average to above-average intelligence but lack high-level thinking and comprehension skills.