Middle years
Resources are provided with this practice
Yes
Summary
Many students on the autism spectrum prefer clear and concrete social cues but social interactions during adolescence and in the context of school are more likely to be complex, nuanced and difficult to understand. This can lead to difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, and also bullying.
The vast majority of students on the autism spectrum experienced bullying throughout their education. Social coaching can be a positive strategy to use with those students who are bullied or have difficulty navigating social interactions.
In this practice, you will use social coaching during incidental opportunities to:
- develop the social skills and inclusive attitudes of their students
- develop students’ ability to respond appropriately to difficult interactions
- foster greater resilience through social coaching
A favourable outcome is that the teacher spends less time managing social conflict. Along with decreased social conflict, students are more willing to engage in classroom group activities.
This practice will help students to
get along with peers
This practice will help teachers to
Spend less time managing student conflict
