Research and Resources
University of South Australia - Autism Research
Autism research continues within the Sansom Institute at the University of South Australia. A new study will involve producing a resource about complementary medicines and dietary interventions in people with autism. The purpose of the study is to gather information during focus groups about the information needs of caregivers as well as healthcare professionals regarding different types of complementary medicines and dietary interventions that are used in autism. A focus group is a discussion group where you are invited to share your views and experiences on particular topics raised by the focus group leader, or being discussed by other focus group participants. There are no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answers, and everyone is encouraged to participate.
From past studies it has been recognised that these forms of treatment are widely used in people with autism. The results from these focus groups, in addition to an extensive literature review that was conducted in 2006 as well as interviews with caregivers, will be used to generate a resource for healthcare professionals, parents and others to enable them to make informed decisions about using these interventions in people with autism.
The study will be conducted by a Pharmacy honours student from the University of South Australia. Participants are not required to provide any intimate details when contributing to focus group discussions. The focus group should take about an hour. Reponses will be recorded in written form, audiotaped and videotaped during the focus group.
Information collected during this study will be treated with the strictest confidence. For further information or to register interest in participating in the project, please contact:
Jimmy Lim
School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences
University of South Australia
m 0401 552 515 t (08) 8302 1227
limhk002@students.unisa.edu.au
Toilet Training Troubles - Resource
Throughout Term 1, 2007, fourth year Occupational Therapy students Nicole Glynn and Sarah Kellie conducted a participatory community practice project at Suneden Special School as part of their studies. The project entitled 'Toilet Training Troubles' aimed to increase the awareness of, and access to, existing resources for the support of successful toileting for parents of children with developmental disabilities.
Through consulting with many agencies and services with an interest and expertise in toilet training individuals with a developmental disability, it was highlighted that an information package outlining the various toilet training services and resources available for children with developmental disabilities would be helpful and worthwhile for the parents and carers involved with these children.
The 'Toilet Training Troubles' information package that was developed by Nicole and Sarah in conjunction with the parents of Suneden Special School outlines the various services and resources available in the support of successful toileting for children with developmental disabilities. The information included in the booklet will be beneficial to parents and guardians of children that have a range of long and short term toileting issues.
The 'Toilet Training Troubles' information package is available to borrow from Michelle Stevens and Belinda Talbot at Autism SA.