The document outlines an 11-module training series on autism spectrum disorders for adults. Module 3 discusses cognition and learning in autism, noting a wide range of cognitive ability from intellectual disability to giftedness. It emphasizes that people with autism can learn, and provides strategies to help teach them, such as using visual aids like objects, pictures and written words instead of only hearing instruction. The key idea is that visuals help with learning for those with autism.

1. The Basics of Autism
Spectrum Disorders
Training Series
RAAC Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Task Force

2. Adult Training Series Modules
 Module One: Autism Defined, Autism Prevalence
and Primary Characteristics
 Module Two: Physical Characteristics of Autism
 Module Three: Cognition and Learning in Autism
 Module Four: Autism and Sensory Differences
 Module Five: Communication and Autism

3. Adult Training Series Modules
 Module Six: Behavior Challenges and Autism
 Module Seven: Understanding Behavior in Persons with
Autism
 Module Eight: Functional Behavior Assessment
 Module Nine: Autism and Leisure Skills to Teach
 Module Ten: Special Issues of Adolescence and Adulthood
 Module Eleven: Safety and Autism

4. Cognition and Learning in Autism
There is a wide range of cognitive
ability.
Intellectual Disability Gifted

5. Big Idea
People with autism can
learn. It is up to us to
figure out the best way to
teach them.

6. Strategies for Learning
Differences
Many people with autism understand better by
seeing than hearing something. When possible, use a
picture or written words.
Actual objects mean more than photographs or line
drawings for some.
They may have great memory for numbers, facts,
directions, but they may have a hard time retelling
events. Use pictures or reminders to help remember
past events.

7. Strategies for Learning
Differences
 Skills learned in one place may not be used in a new place.
May have to teach the skill in each place it is used.
 The person may not learn by watching others. We may
have to teach them by going through each step. A list of
steps can be helpful for some tasks.

8. Strategies for Learning
Differences
It might take longer for the person with ASD
to think through what was said before they
are able to respond. Give them time.
They might not even see why they should
respond. Prompt them to respond.
Some days it may be harder to concentrate or
the person may be more stressed, making it
harder for them to think and learn.

9. Big Idea
Visuals help with learning.
This can be objects,
pictures, or written words.