Why this is important: The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), also known as Asperger’s, has been an increasingly discussed topic in recent years. Housing staff should have an awareness of how neurodiversity may occur with their residence and learn how to more effectively communicate with residents who experience the world differently. 
 
Description: This micro-learning course provides a timely overview of how residents with ASD behave and communicate in a housing setting and the importance of addressing this neurodiversity from an open and respectful stance. This research-based program will provide clear and practical advice regarding how to best approach and communicate with residents who have difference preferences in terms of speech, noise, touch, and interaction styles, allowing housing staff to be more effective in their communication and avoid common mistakes. A review of common myths related to ASD will be covered and why working with a multi-disciplinary behavioral intervention team may help reduce conflict and identify innovative ways to address these behaviors in a housing setting.
 
Housing staff will be able to:
Understand what is meant by ASD and Asperger’s and how these behaviors occur on a range (or spectrum), which means everyone who has ASD presents differently
Describe common behaviors of autistic individuals related to touch, loud noises, idiosyncratic interests, and unique communication styles
Avoid labeling or stigmatizing those with ASD based on stereotypes and misconceptions 
Talk with their residences about communication preferences and lean into the concept related to accommodating differences can benefit all residents in a housing community