Standard Presentation (25-minute) Understanding the Autistic Language Learner more

Sat, Sep 16, 15:25-15:50 Asia/Tokyo

The presenter draws on her own experience as an autistic learner and teacher of language. This presentation will explore how teachers' personal and professional development informs practice and helps us respond sensitively to all students including neurodiverse learners. Studies (Sasayama, 2021) estimate that at least 3% of the Japanese population is autistic. Some autistic students in your classes may not have been formally diagnosed, or be aware that they are on the spectrum. Each has a unique set of strengths and challenges. Not all will want to communicate their needs to their language teacher or receive special attention in class. To foster inclusivity in the classroom, teachers can call on both their professional skills and personal qualities to develop their awareness of students' needs and abilities and create practical strategies to support and engage all students. Freed from the emotional associations of their native language, foreign language learning can provide an opportunity for the autistic student to develop their language, communication and social skills in a new context. Understanding the autistic language learner can therefore contribute to the personal development of both teacher and student.