Introduction 5complexities to promoting social inclusion of children with Autism within that
group. In Chapter 12, Kanokporn Vibulpatanavong highlights the important role
culture plays in the social inclusion of persons with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
All individuals are unique. For a young person with a diagnosis of Autism
Spectrum Disorder, their uniqueness is a defining characteristic of their identity.
Without question, any consideration of a student’s development must take into
account the relationships they have with those closest to them – their family, teach-
ers and peers. Yet these relationships are shaped by the combination of each student’s
individual qualities: their personality, behaviour, unique traits, attitude, interpersonal
skills and communication abilities, which in combination identify a distinct person.
In Chapter 13, Stephen Shore, a prominent member of the Autism community,
shares his personal journey of social inclusion, from early years and diagnosis to later
successes, both personal and professional.
Together the chapters combine to highlight the importance of social inclu-
sion as a defining feature for successful education of children and students with
Autism Spectrum Disorder. This book has utilised a definition of social inclusion
based on current research which has progressed from previous abstract, subjective
descriptions of a student’s ability to be socially included, to an explanation that
involves a more contemporary, active demonstration of a student’s inclusion in social
relationships.
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