Understanding Autism

The course content seems aimed at people with very little previous knowledge of autism, and to that extent it provided a good introduction to the topic. The format was uninspiring: a succession of talking heads videos, with the same few people in the various discussions. After the first few units, I ignored the videos and read the transcripts instead.

The course repeatedly told us that there is a lot of diversity in autism, and it would have been interesting to know more about the range of that diversity. The presence of two autistic people in the course team was positive, but as academics they hardly represent the full range of autistic people.

I had been hoping for more information about autism research: neurology, genetics, social aspects, as well as about the various kinds of support which autistic people may need or be offered, both during childhood and adult life, and about the ways in which life can be improved for people with autism. That would include modification of environments such as schools and workplaces, as well as adaptation of teaching methods and management styles.

There is a great deal of information about autism available in print and online, much of it produced by autistic authors / bloggers: if you are already familiar with this, you are unlikely to gain much more from the course.

Excellently structured. A course designed hand in hand with autistics to ensure the material is balanced, appropriate, not infantilising or doom-laden in any way. Course presenters and mentors actively engage with learners throughout. The content is very much up to date and challenges many stereotypes without being antagonistic, beguiling learners into a deeper appreciation of the autistic mind and life experience. I have been encouraging people to take this course from day 1. Seriously considering sitting through the next session also just to enjoy the journey, it was that good.
All in all, this is by far the most useful introduction to the autistic world currently available online, and quite suitable for parents and other caregivers, adolescent and adult autistics, educators and clinicians - especially those who reckon they "already know all that stuff". Come and have your understanding transformed!