ERIC Number: EJ1187456
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2011-Sep
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2223-7674
EISSN: N/A
The Identification of Sensory Processing Difficulties of Learners Experiencing Asperger's Syndrome (AS) in Two Mainstream Grade R Classes
de Jager, Petronella; Condy, Janet
South African Journal of Childhood Education, v1 n2 p11-26 Sep 2011
The purpose of this study is to explore the sensory processing difficulties of Grade R learners that are diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) in two schools in South Africa. Attwood (2007, p. 271) considers sensory sensitivities to have a greater impact on the lives of these individuals, than problems with making friends, managing emotions and coping academically. This research approach was purely qualitative; it used interviews and observations. The sample consists of two independent case studies composed of learners aged between five and seven who had been clinically diagnosed with AS. The results confirmed sensory processing difficulties, and illustrated how these difficulties impacted on the general learning and development of learners diagnosed with AS. Although they were both bright learners, they were perceived as underachievers. By identifying these sensory difficulties and creating awareness among educators, it is possible to debunk misconceptions people have of the adaptability of these learners to a mainstream school environment.
Descriptors: Asperger Syndrome, Perceptual Impairments, Early Childhood Education, Preschool Children, Foreign Countries, Case Studies, Interviews, Observation, Inclusion, Preschool Teachers, Perceptual Motor Coordination
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: South Africa
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A