Learning on the spectrum: Study tips for autism

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If you’re on the autism spectrum, the world seems a little different to you than others. Maybe you learn in a unique way or social situations are a bit tricky to navigate. 

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This post is all about understanding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and how it can affect the way you learn. We're going to dive into some common experiences autistic students might have in the classroom, from processing information differently to managing sensory sensitivities, and share tips to make learning a more enjoyable experience. 🚀

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What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological and developmental disorder. It can present in different ways, usually affecting how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. 

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Autistic people are often innovators, known for their focused interests and ingenious approaches. Their ability to see things from a different perspective can lead to breakthroughs that advance our understanding of the world. According to biographical sources, many famous scientists, for example, Alan Turing, Albert Einstein, and Isaac Newton were on the autism spectrum. 

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Symptoms can vary widely from person to person, but ASD often goes hand in hand with learning difficulties, such as:

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Processing information differently 🤔

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Auditory lectures might be overwhelming, while written text can be confusing due to challenges with literal interpretation or decoding figurative language.

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Difficulty understanding nonverbal communication and social cues 💬

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This can hinder participation in group projects or discussions. Following complex instructions or adapting to sudden changes in routine can be challenging.

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Challenges with planning and time management ⏳

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Executive function skills can be impacted by ASD. This can lead to difficulties with completing assignments, meeting deadlines, or keeping track of materials.

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Sensory sensitivities or repetitive behaviors 😣

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These can make it difficult to focus on tasks or filter out distractions in a classroom setting. Maintaining sustained attention during lectures or long reading assignments can be a struggle.

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Difficulty with abstract thinking 💭

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This can make it difficult to grasp complex ideas, metaphors, or hypothetical situations presented in lessons.

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Learning tips for students on the Autism Spectrum 

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Create a study routine 📅

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Autistic students love predictability. Build a regular study schedule that breaks down tasks into manageable chunks, and stick to it as much as possible. This will help you focus your energy and feel more in control of your learning.

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Incorporate visual aids 👀

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Since visual processing can be a strength for autistic students, creating a detailed visual schedule can be a powerful tool for time management. This can be especially helpful for those who find verbal or written communication challenging, which is common for some on the autism spectrum.

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Try to learn in different ways 🎧

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Don't be afraid to explore different learning styles! Supplement lectures with audiobooks or visual aids. Utilize text-to-speech tools or ask for written instructions to complement auditory learning. 

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➕ Bonus tip: You can create AI flashcards, diagram cards, fill-in-the-blanks, and voice flashcards in Voovo, in seconds, and try which method works best for you. 

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Let others know you’re different 🗣️

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Communicate your learning style and any sensory sensitivities to your teachers and your peers. This helps them tailor their approach and provide appropriate accommodations.

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Create a distraction-free zone for studying 🪷

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Autistic students are overwhelmed by noises, lights, smells, or textures. Use noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, or calming visuals to minimize distractions and enhance focus.

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Find classmates who understand your communication style 🙋‍♂️

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Finding someone you feel comfortable with can create a supportive environment for group projects and discussions.

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Schedule short breaks to de-stress ⏲️

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Movement breaks, listening to calming music, or spending time in a quiet space can help you recharge, refocus, and avoid sensory overload.

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Try learning apps 📱

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Digital learning apps cater to different learning styles. Digital flashcards, for example, can be easily organized into decks by subject, topic, or difficulty level. This makes it easier for students with ASD who value order and structure to find the information they need quickly. 

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➕ Bonus tip: Voovo uses a hierarchical system that allows you to organize your flashcards by topic, chapter, and subject to keep your flashcards under control, no matter how complex the subject gets.

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Are flashcards a good study tool for autistic students? 

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Digital flashcards can be a great study tool for some autistic students while others might not like them. It all depends on individual preferences. 

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Here's why flashcards might be a good fit:

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Flashcards cater to visual learning 👁️

Many autistic students are strong visual learners. Digital flashcards can incorporate pictures, videos, and even audio recordings to enhance memorization.

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Flashcards are customizable 🏷️

Many flashcard apps allow you to create your own decks, personalize settings like text size and background color, and even incorporate text-to-speech features. This allows students to tailor the learning experience to their specific needs and preferences.

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You can organize flashcards into categories 📂

Flashcards can be easily organized into categories and subcategories, making it easier for students to find specific information and track their progress.

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Flashcards keep you engaged 🤩

Some flashcard apps offer gamification features like points and rewards, which can make studying more interactive and fun.

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➕Bonus tip: We’re adding new gamification features like Streaks and Goal Setting to help Voovo users stay on track!

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You can use flashcards anywhere 🚌

Digital flashcards can be accessed on a variety of devices, allowing students to study anywhere, anytime.

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However, there are some other things to consider:

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Sensory overload 💥

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Excessive screen time can be overwhelming for autistic students who might already experience sensory sensitivities. The constant visual stimulation and potential for flickering lights or rapid movements on screen can lead to fatigue and difficulty focusing. 

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➕Bonus tip: Always set boundaries to limit screentime and take breaks to move around, have a snack, or take a walk. 

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Noises and distractions 📴

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Some apps send many push notifications, which can easily pull an autistic student's focus away from the learning task at hand. 

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If this is a concern for you, look for apps with clean, uncluttered interfaces and the ability to disable notifications.

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Relying too much on tech 👨‍💻

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Relying solely on digital tools can backfire. Traditional materials like textbooks and handwritten notes can be just as valuable for autistic learners. Consider using a combination of digital and traditional methods to create a well-rounded study approach.

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Ultimately, the best way to know if digital flashcards are helpful is to try them out and see! The key is to find a healthy balance between screen time and other learning activities.  🧘

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Your uniqueness is your strength!

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Remember, you are an amazing learner with an interesting mind! With a little planning and exploration, you can turn your unique learning style into a superpower that helps you achieve anything you set your mind to!

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Don't be afraid to ask for help from teachers, parents, or tutors – they're there to support you on your learning journey. 

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We hope you found this blog post useful! If you have any learning tips for students on the autism spectrum, let us know!

If you’d like to give Voovo a try, you can download it from the App Store or Google Play!

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