Understanding Asperger's Syndrome

The purpose of this guide is to help educators (teachers and administrators) become acquainted with identifying and meeting the needs of the student with Asperger's Syndrome. Public school, while often difficult for typical students, can be a nightmare for those students with Asperger's Syndrome. Without information and training in this disability, teachers face confusion and frustration in light of the unusual behaviors and lack of social skills. Without training, students with Asperger's Syndrome are misidentified and often blamed for behaviors that are a direct result of their disability. It is hoped that this guide will lead teachers to a better understanding of Asperger's Syndrome and help the students with AS have a richer, more enjoyable educational experience.

The purpose of this guide is to help educators (teachers and administrators) become acquainted with identifying and meeting the needs of the student with Asperger's Syndrome. Public school, while often difficult for typical students, can be a nightmare for those students with Asperger's Syndrome. Without information and training in this disability, teachers face confusion and frustration in light of the unusual behaviors and lack of social skills. Without training, students with Asperger's Syndrome are misidentified and often blamed for behaviors that are a direct result of their disability. It is hoped that this guide will lead teachers to a better understanding of Asperger's Syndrome and help the students with AS have a richer, more enjoyable educational experience.

Emily Burrows, Ed.S., is a seventh grade middle school teacher at Arnall Middle School in Newnan, Georgia. Mrs. Burrows is a veteran teacher, having taught in both Georgia and Kentucky. She has collaborated with resource teachers and has taught both students with autism and Asperger's Syndrome. Her research project for the Ed.S. Degree at West Georgia State University has given her further knowledge on meeting the classroom needs of the students with Asperger's Syndrome.