As far as actual classroom stuff (please remember that we’re all different, but this would help me):
I would appreciate written instructions for every assignment, rather than being told about an assignment during a lecture.
Suggestion: You could arrange for Ursula to meet with you right after class to make sure she has correctly written down any assignments.
I would prefer a quiet classroom. The person who talked about sensory issues is right.
Please keep group work to a minimum, and make it optional if you can. If you are going to make your students work in a group, please assign them so that I don’t end up without a group.
Group work is a major problem for ASD’s. More on this later.
I would like you to tell me directly (but not in front of the class unless it is announced and meant for everyone) that it is okay for me to leave the classroom to use the restroom or just take a moment to myself. A lot of teachers seem to assume that everyone knows this, but I’m never sure how to handle it with a new teacher. I will stay in my seat even if I feel like my bladder might burst unless the teacher has specifically explained how his/her policy works.
Please don’t raise your voice at me, or I will very likely cry, which is embarrassing for someone my age. I’m very sensitive to loud noises and people being upset with me, so it’s kind of a double whammy.
Please don’t call on me if I haven’t raised my hand, and don’t assume that I’m not paying attention if I’m not looking at you or volunteering to answer any questions.
From these three comments, you get a sense of just how anxious Ursula is. High anxiety is common amongst students on the spectrum, for obvious reasons. For them, negotiating with neurotypicals is like being from another planet. Addressing these concerns privately will allow her to relax a bit more so she can focus her energy on learning your material. |
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