Understanding the Nature of Autism: A Practical Guide

Much of the literature on autism consists of research reviews or recipes to resolve single problems on a narrow range of issues. It is difficult for the practitioner, faced with everyday challenges, to unravel and apply this information flexibly. In Understanding the Nature of Autism, Janice E. Janzen examines the spectrum of autism, describing deficits and strengths and providing practical information and strategies. Her goal is to lead teachers and caregivers to a deeper understanding and recognition of the potential of those with autism.
Anecdotes, examples, and an extensive case study illustrate principles and concepts. Numerous figures, reproducible record keeping forms, and a glossary further aid the reader.

Key Features
Establishes the foundation for understanding autism and its impact on learning and thinking
* Addresses assessment and evaluation issues
* Strategies are provided for solving common problems and eliciting relevant information
* Presents guidelines for making decisions and planning positive educational programs and support systems
* Provides a base for planning interventions and introduces a set of strategies to address the most common deficits and problems of those with autism
* Integrates information from previous chapters and applies it to the process for teaching a broad range of new skills
* Summarizes the processes and strategies and addresses some potentially serious problems

Janice E. Janzen has been involved in the field of autism since 1972, first as a teacher in early childhood classes in a private treatment center and in the public school system in Anchorage, Alaska. Later, as an Autism Specialist for the Oregon Department of Education, she was instrumental in developing services for students with autism across the state. While at the Department, Janzen had statewide responsibility to support Regional Autism Specialists, to consult in difficult situations, to develop training materials, and to conduct workshops for educators and parents.Janzen received a B.S. degree in Elementary Early Childhood Education from the University of Oregon; and the MS degree in Special Education/Learning Disabilities from the University of Alaska. Her initial autism training at the Judevine Center in St. Louis, Missouri, occurred simultaneously with her master's program. During this period, she began to develop her unique understanding of the autism learning style.Janzen has a special interest and concern with the problems of families, and emphasizes the need for families and educators to work collaboratively. She is a cofounder of the Autism Council of Oregon, an organization for parents and professionals. She has written numerous technical assistance and special topics papers on autism for distribution by the Oregon Department of Education. Her RAPSOURCE papers on autism, prepared by the Head Start Training Office, Resource Access Project at Portland State University, have received wide distribution. Currently Janzen is in private practice, consulting, writing, and teaching.