[A study of state support services for children with Autism in London mainstream primary schools]

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Acknowledgement

I would first like to express my gratitude for my research supervisor, colleagues, peers and family whose immense and constant support has been a source of continuous guidance and inspiration.

DECLARATION

I [type your full first names & surname here], declare that the following dissertation/thesis and its entire content has been an individual, unaided effort and has not been submitted or published before. Furthermore, it reflects my opinion and take on the topic and is does not represent the opinion of the University.

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Abstract

In this study we try to explore the concept of the Autism in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on study of state support services for children with Autism in London mainstream primary schools. The research also analyzes many reasons of diagnosis of the Autism in Children. This Study tries to gauge the state support services for the children. The study followed the mixed research methodology. The diagnosis of autism inn children has become significantly widespread and is becoming a phenomenally prevalent situation. This research compares the services and interventions that are available in two independent mainstream primary schools in local London boroughs (Wandsworth and Wimbledon). With focus on the role and perspective of special educational sector, the speech and language therapists involved within the educational sector, the perspective of the primary care giver is also considered alongside the impact of the spending review ion the services and interventions available for children with autism and their families is also considered.

Table of Contents

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT2

DECLARATION3

ABSTRACT4

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION6

Outline of the Study6

Background of the study6

Rationale of the study7

Research Aim & Objective10

Significance of the Study11

Predictions of the Study12

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW13

History of Autism13

Early intervention16

Features and Diagnosis17

Reasons for increase in number of diagnosis19

Types of treatment programs22

The role of Special educational needs teachers25

Statement of problem25

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY28

Research Design28

Data Collection Method28

Samples and Sampling29

Research Instrument29

Variables30

Research Philosophy31

Ethical Consideration32

CHAPTER 4: ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION33

Survey Findings33

Teachers Result34

Parents result36

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION38

Recommendations39

REFERENCES40

APPENDIX50

Interview Transcripts50

Interview Questionnaire51

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

Outline of the Study

The first chapter provides an introduction to the topic including the purpose and significance of the study. The second chapter presents a review of relevant literature, highlighting the previous research carried out in this field. The third chapter covers the methodology for this study. The analysis of findings and discussion will be presented in the fourth chapter. The fifth chapter will conclude the dissertation, providing implications and useful recommendations for further research.

Background of the study

Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder. Those diagnosed with autism have marked impairments in reciprocal social interaction and communication, as well as restrictive and repetitive interests or behaviours (Bertoglio & Hendren, 2009). The manifestations of autism vary depending on the age and level of development of the individual (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). In the past 20 years, the prevalence of autism has increased dramatically. In the 1980s, there were approximately 1 in 2,500 people diagnosed with autism (Bertoglio & Hendren, 2009). In 2007, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (2007) found that 1 in 150 children ...