Autism Spectrum Disorders: Social Communication and Behaviour

Undergraduate | 2026

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area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
SPTH 1016
Course ID icon
Course ID
208165
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
1
Study abroad and student exchange icon
Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
No
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
No
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
No
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

Develop clinical reasoning skills to understand theoretical foundations of Autism and apply evidence-based assessment and intervention approaches for individuals with autism spectrum disorders across the lifespan.
Prevalence and etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD); introduction to core characteristics: pervasive and sustained difficulties with reciprocal social communication, social interaction and behaviours; presence of language disorder and its characteristics; assessment of ASD and core principles for best practice assessment using interprofessional collaborative practice models; risk factors and developmental red flags; evidence-based treatment models for ASD; reference to the ICF and functional impact to inform practice in ASD; the role of the family and primary carers; cultural considerations to ASD assessment, diagnosis and management.

Course learning outcomes

  • Analyse approaches to understanding autism, including theoretical and clinical perspectives including neurodevelopmental, psychological, neurobiological and genetic explanations)
  • Implementation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to explore personal accounts of Autism and how it affects different individuals and families
  • Generate key aspects and guiding principles of diagnosis, assessment, goal setting and intervention, including life-span and cultural considerations.
  • Exemplifying Indigenous perspectives on autism, as well as barriers and strategies to improve access to diagnosis and support services
  • Attributing exploring topical issues including neurodiversity perspectives, and autism in global contexts

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A