Autism Essentials is a free, self-paced online course that provides an overview of Autism in a neuro-affirming way. This means we talk about Autism and Autistic people in a way that is respectful of who we are, our strengths and our challenges, and does not prioritise non-Autistic ways of being, thinking and doing.
We want to change the frame through which society views Autism. The frame through which we choose to see Autism is the neurodiversity paradigm, which means that we see Autism as a valuable, worthy and naturally occurring brain difference.
That’s why we’re proud to present Autism Essentials.
Please note: If you are a professional supporting Autistics, we are also pleased to offer a Professional Development version of Autism Essentials, which offers a PD Certificate upon course completion. Please click here to access the PD version.
This course is designed for a wide variety of lived experiences as well as different levels of pre-existing knowledge about Autism – from those that are totally new to the topic to those that have formal education in Autism.
Whether you are Autistic, formally diagnosed, self-identified or think you might be Autistic, a family member or loved one of an Autistic person, a researcher, teacher, other professional, or ally, we hope you learn something new or deepen and extend your existing knowledge of Autism and the Autistic community.
Autism Essentials focusses on five main areas:
Please note, this course does not provide a professional development certificate as it is designed as a self study course. If you would like a professional development certificate, you can purchase this version.
This is a general course for everyone, how can I make sure that it works for me?
All learners access the same base information in the course, but each topic has multiple worksheets available for different levels of knowledge about Autism. You can choose to complete the level that best fits your knowledge, complete all worksheets, or return to the course work later on in your journey and continue your learning by completing further levels. We encourage you to learn in your own time and customise your learning in a way that works for you.
What is the format of this course – is it accessible?
This course features video content and accompanying worksheets. All videos are captioned and have downloadable transcripts. Course worksheets are available in PDF format and can be filled out digitally using a web browser or PDF editor or printed and filled out.
Do you collect my answers to the course content?
We do not collect your answers – this is a self-guided course, and worksheet activities are for your personal reflection only.
What if I want to learn more after doing Autism Essentials – what can I do next?
Reframing Autism has many other resources available, including blogs, podcasts, tip sheets, webinars, and targeted, on-demand courses for Autistics, families and primary caregivers and professionals. To explore our other offerings, visit our learning page.
“As a professional it was brilliant to see information about Autism being presented from the Autistic experience. I think a course like this should be mandatory for any professional working with the Autistic community”
“I highly recommend this course to all health professionals and especially speech pathologists. I loved how complex topics (such as communication and language) were presented in a concise and interesting way without oversimplifying. I especially loved the tiered worksheets! As a professional working with families with different experiences and knowledge, this use of tailored language and carefully thought-out level of detail is super supportive and helpful!”
“A wonderful learning opportunity and certainly a powerful, positive, and affirming reframing of Autism. Highly recommend.”
“I have not yet divulged my autism to some areas of my life, participating in this course has helped me to be more confident about being proudly autistic in all aspects so that I can role model neuro-affirming for my autistic daughter. Thank you.”
The Reframing Autism team would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we have the privilege to learn, work, and grow. Whilst we gather on many different parts of this Country, the RA team walk on the land of the Amangu, Awabakal, Bindjareb, Birpai, Whadjak, Wiradjuri and Yugambeh peoples.
We are committed to honouring the rich culture of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this Country, and the diversity and learning opportunities with which they provide us. We extend our gratitude and respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to all Elders past and present, for their wisdom, their resilience, and for helping this Country to heal.
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