Additional information and FAQs
Module information
The key text for the first module is Nick Chown’s ‘Understanding and Evaluating Autism Theory’. You will be provided with a reading list once enrolled, and more information about the assignments and supervision will be explained during the in-person/live-online teaching (for module 1) and the virtual away-day (for module 2).
You will have support from your supervisor throughout, including feedback on draft work.
Module one: Critical reflections on autism
- Define a title for the assignment and receive detailed formative feedback on draft work.
- Complete and submit a 4000-word assignment based on models of disability, a conceptualisation of autism, and a critique of autism theory. This work may have a bespoke focus that is relevant and pertinent to the delegate’s circumstances.
Module two: Autopia: Autism, Environment and Practice
- A bespoke module designed to allow students to choose an area of practice to critique in relation to good autism practice, and what ‘we’ can do better.
- Complete and submit a 4000-word assignment as per agreed with your supervisor.
Frequently asked questions
How many modules are there?
There are two 30 credit modules: Critical Reflections on Autism followed by Autopia: Autism, Environment and Practice.
When do I submit my assignments?
Assignment submission dates will be explained during the teaching week. The assignment for Module 1 will be approximately 3 months from the course start, the assignment for Module 2 will be approximately 8 months from the course start.
How much time should I expect to work on my assignments?
Every student will have different backgrounds, different skills, different experiences which makes this a tough query to respond to. However, polls of previous cohorts suggest that on average students work on their reading and writing for approximately half a day a week during their studies. This, of course, differs considerably though from one student to the next!
What happens if I can’t attend a session?
All lectures and Q&A sessions are recorded – so if you miss a session you can catch up at a later date. The materials will be available throughout the period of study for each module.
Will I get any help writing my assignment?
You will have support from your supervisor throughout, including feedback on draft work. There are also systems within the university that you can use to seek assistance with writing your assignment.
What should I be reading to get a head start?
The key text for the first Module is Nick Chown’s ‘Understanding and Evaluating Autism Theory’. You will be provided with a reading list once enrolled but this is a guide only.
How is Module Two run?
We will have a virtual ‘away day’ at the start of Module Two followed by supervision. The module is all about autism practice and what ‘we’ might be doing better and is very individual – all will be explained during the ‘away day’.
Are there alternatives to writing an assignment?
Yes. If writing is not your preferred option there are alternatives (e.g. pre-recorded presentation) - more information will be available during the course.
Do I have to do anything prior to the start of the course?
In a sense you can do as much or as little as you like! There is no prerequisite in terms of what we ask for, but you can always start your reading if you like.