<
https://theconversation.com/new-abc-show-the-assembly-highlights-how-neurodivergence-can-enhance-jobs-or-study-235893>
"
The Assembly, a new ABC documentary series, introduces us to a diverse group
of autistic people who are interested in pursuing journalism careers.
The first episode strikes a nice balance between introducing the Macquarie
University students, showing their classroom experience and an interview with a
celebrity – in this episode, New Zealand actor Sam Neill. Other interview
subjects in the series include singer Delta Goodrem, Prime Minister Anthony
Albanese and footballer Adam Goodes. The students are mentored by journalist
Leigh Sales.
This could have been another cringey reality TV show using autistic people,
like myself, to entertain neurotypical people, focusing on their quirks and
challenges. The first episode does have one at-home segment with a student’s
mother, which jarred a little for me.
But predominantly it shows trainee journalists being encouraged to develop and
ask their own questions, about things that interest them. It’s a welcome change
from programs which seem to focus on teaching autistic participants to act less
autistic.
Here’s what the program does well (based on watching the first episode) and
what it demonstrates about autism in study and work settings."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
