Autism can be described as a “neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the way the brain works” (Government of Ontario, 2019). The range of abilities vary drastically depending on where one falls on the spectrum, however, the experiences and abilities of individuals with autism can benefit greatly with adequate interventions.
About Temple Grandin
Dr. Temple Grandin is a prominent author and speaker for autism and animal behaviour. She received a PhD in animal science and advanced humane ways of treating cattle using the knowledge gleaned from her personal experience with autism. Her long list of publications involve animal science and autism education where she breaks down years of stigma and misunderstanding. It is noted that like many children with autism, she did not speak until she was three and a half years old (Temple Grandin, 2012). Dr. Grandin was diagnosed with autism (considered “brain damage” at the time) at the age of 2 and received early treatments such as extensive speech therapy to assist with her ability to communicate (Biography.com Editors). She attributes her early intervention to her mother’s resistance of putting her in an institution and therefore, advocates strongly for adequate support for young children.
Outreach and Advocacy
Dr. Grandin is currently a professor at Colorado State University in addition to lecturing parents and teachers throughout the U.S. and internationally on her experience with autism. Dr. Grandin has received numerous industry awards, been featured on multiple major media programs, and the subject of an HBO movie that received seven Emmy awards. Her passion for embracing the autism diagnosis, along with her pursuit for animal welfare has made her one of the most influential people in the world, according to Times Magazine (2010).
Dr. Grandin has used this platform to educate the world on autism and the range of abilities that individuals bring to society. She speaks openly about “differently-abled minds” and asserts, “rigid academic and social expectations could wind up stifling a mind that, while it might struggle to conjugate a verb, could one day take us to distant stars” (Temple Grandin, 2019). As an educator, her message is well received and relates to the notion that every student should be seen as capable learner. With the high achievement of all students in mind via adequate supports, Dr. Grandin cautions against the use of labels. She argues that the autism spectrum is so wide that providing a label may consequently impede progress and the healthy development of identity (Temple Grandin, 2019). Unfortunately, the only way for students to receive support in schools is to be formally identified with an exceptionality and Dr. Grandin views this as a problem. Her solution is to promote an understanding of the differently-abled mind. She describes three types of specialized thinking during her Ted Talk as well as in her book titled The Autistic Brain. Her findings indicate that “elementary schools must teach important career related skills and provide opportunities for students to have social interactions with their peers” (Temple Grandin, 2019). Although Dr. Grandin does not exclusively discuss the topic of inclusive classrooms, the benefits that it provides individuals with autism is evident within her research.
Dr. Grandin maintains close relations with Cooperative Extension at Colorado State where she actively presents to Colorado ranchers and farmers as well as those interested in the packing industry. She is considered an innovator in her field and is highly regarded when it comes to issues of quality assurance. Her website www.grandin.com, includes an incredible amount of information on livestock handling in addition to the design of handling systems. It also provides a platform to discuss issues within education and aims to promote the benefits that autistic children bring to society when they are nurtured appropriately. According to the National Autism Conference, “over 2000 people from 50 countries worldwide visit the website every month and approximately 1000 people download significant amounts of information” (2019).
Impact on Society
Dr. Temple Grandin has had a major impact on society and more specifically, the meat and livestock industries worldwide. She is considered one of the world’s leaders in the design of livestock handling facilities and has used her personal experience to reduce stress of animals during handling in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand. Her publications and advocacy work in the area of animal science has been utilized by many large corporations to improve animal care.
Dr. Grandin spends the majority of her time consulting for various organizations in an effort to improve the effectiveness of animal wellness during production. She has worked with many packaging companies as well as many fast food chains such as Wendy’s, Burger King, and McDonalds where she trains auditors regarding animal care at processing plants (National Autism Conference, 2019).
Resources
Biography.com Editors (2019). Temple Grandin. Retrieved from
Government of Ontario. (2019). Autism in Ontario. Retrieved from
https://www.ontario.ca/page/autism-ontario.
National Autism Conference. (2019). Temple Grandin, Ph.D. Retrieved from
https://nac.nationalautismassociation.org/temple-grandin/.
Temple Grandin. (2012). About Temple Grandin. Retrieved from
http://www.templegrandin.com/templehome.html.
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