Dr Peter Vermeulen: Autism As Context Blindness

Dr Vermeulen has developed a theory of ?context blindness? in autism. The concept of context blindness unifies the existing cognitive models in autism (theory of mind/extreme male brain, executive functioning, and central coherence) and offers a unique and practical understanding of autism. Difficulty seeing and understanding context can explain why children and young people with autism have difficulty with communication, social interaction, flexible thinking and behaviour. In this Masterclass, Dr Vermeulen will explain the theory, discuss recent research in the area and explain how understanding context blindness can help teachers develop effective strategies for promoting teaching and learning in children and young people with autism.