The Design, Implementation and Evaluation of an Educational Programme for Children with Autism in Oil-Rich Countries: The Case of Kuwait

Kanner's research in 1943 marked the beginning of a new approach to autism, which would, henceforth, be viewed as a special kind of impairment. Since then there has been a steady growth in the educational programmes for autistic children in developing countries, while not a single comprehensive programme exists in oil rich countries. The impetus for this study came from the failure of these latter countries to provide early intervention and adequate educational facilities to maximise the individual abilities of autistic children. The study focuses on identifying the educational and training needs of autistic children in Kuwait, designing a programme based on those needs, implementing it effectively and evaluating its outcomes. Kuwait was selected as a case study for other oil rich countries. The design of the programme will depend on identifying 'from the parents perspective' the educational and training needs of autistic children through a field survey. The evaluation of the programme's; impact will be made through detailed interviews with teachers and parents as well as by a panel of experts. The study will examine the existing facilities for special education, specifically those for autistic children, the level of awareness needs and public attitudes. Current trends in educating autistic children will be reviewed and major components of educational programmes will be identified. The study is intended to demonstrate the viability of establishing educational programmes for autistic children compatible with the society's cultural values. Implications for future development and suggestions for further enhancement of such programmes are discussed. The study will provide a model of an effective approach for meeting the education needs of autistic children.' It will show that it is possible to design and implement a successful educational programme in oil rich countries, such as Kuwait.