Issue 3: Sensory Overload
Individuals with Autism may find many everyday experiences overwhelming, especially those associated with the senses- smell, touch, sight, hear, and taste. "Abnormalities in processing incoming sensations such as light, sound, touch, taste, pain, smell, movement or temperature are reportedly experienced by 70-95% of the ASD population." (Ganguly, 2013, p.13). This is an issue because many of the senses are affected in the classroom, and therefore need to be considered. When certain sounds are too loud, or lights too bright etc. Christopher does not like to be touched, and when there are too many people around, especially those he does not know, he retreats into his own world because it is too overwhelming. Learning is therefore hindered as it takes a while for him to step out of his world and acknowledge other people. A nice area in the classroom for the individual to "hide away" from the world is a good idea.
(See Artefacts: 3 Quiet Area/Tent).