2012 Programme

This page about Autscape 2012 is of historical interest only. Go to the home page for current information.

This section of the site contains a complete overview of the Autscape 2012 programme. The following information is available:

Challenges

We understand how important it is, especially for autistic people, to know what to expect before doing something new. An important part of understanding the programme of activities, is understanding some of the challenges and benefits of attending.

Everything at Autscape is completely optional. You are not obliged to attend anything, communicate with anyone (unless you are a parent or carer), or participate in any way. If you are interested in doing things, there is plenty going on throughout the day, serious, fun, structured and unstructured.

Theme

The theme for Autscape 2012 is: Similarities and Diversities

Theme Description

While the diagnosis of autism spectrum conditions would suggest that all autistics share certain characteristics, it is also clear that autistic people differ from one another at least as much as we are similar. In this year's programme, we wish to explore these "similarities and diversities" both within the autistic spectrum and between autistic and non-autistic people. This may include any aspect of autism in which we may be similar to or different from each other, e.g. emotional or sensory experiences, memory and information processing, social interaction styles, communication, management of home and personal lives, personalities. It may also include understanding non-autistics, theories that unify or divide the autistic spectrum, explaining autism to people who know little - or a little too much - about it, autism and co-morbid conditions (e.g. mental or physical health issues), and many other topics.

The theme is meant to inspire presenters as well as to provide some coherence to the programme, not to be overly restrictive, so feel free to be creative in its application. Presentations which seek to develop this theme will be given priority; however, any suitable topics will be given consideration.

Broad Outline

Each of the main days (Tuesday and Wednesday) follow a similar pattern, morning and afternoon. Two formal presentations, then a half hour break followed by concurrent discussions of the presentations.

The afternoon sessions, however, will not start until 16.00. This allows for a leisurely lunch/rest period 13.00-14.30 and opportunities for leisure activities 14.30-15.30.

Evening activities will include entertainment, informal discussions, DVDs, and a chance to relax and chat.

Anytime

There are always opportunities to go for walks, explore the surrounding area, spend time relaxing in the grounds, socialise or play board games.

Autscape fees also include meals and plenty of coffee and tea.

Presentation Types

Lectures

Lectures are scheduled one at a time so anyone can attend without having to choose. They are generally more of the presenter speaking and less interactive than workshops, but each lecture should have an opportunity to ask questions. Don't let the word "lecture" put you off, it's only an explanation of the presentation style, not an indication that it will be long and boring.

Workshops

Workshops are usually more interactive than lectures. They are also usually done in smaller groups. Autscape workshops may be scheduled at the same time as some other activities, so some choices will have to be made. As well as allowing us to have a more varied programme and fewer people in each group, this stimulates discussion outside of the sessions as participants share what they learnt in the sessions they attended.

Structured Discussions

Throughout the conference there will be a number of unstructured and structured discussions. Some of these, including those following main presentations, may be scheduled at the same time as other discussions or activities, so choices may have to be made. Structured discussions have a facilitator who has some information to share on the topic and will help participants each have their say.

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