Abstract:
The research addresses the inclusion of autistic children in regular education and teacher training, a topic that emerged from the challenges faced when dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the classroom. These challenges were exacerbated by the lack of historical information about autism and the efforts of scholars to understand its etiology as a spectrum disorder. The main objective of the study was to analyze how autistic students are being included in regular schools and how teacher training contributes to meeting their educational needs. Furthermore, the study sought to conceptualize diversity and autism, examine inclusion practices in regular schools, identify students with disabilities—paying special attention to autistic individuals—and understand the benefits of continuing education for teachers in the learning process of these students. The study also aimed to contribute to building a more inclusive school environment, especially in light of the growing diversity in contemporary times, through qualified teacher training. The methodology employed was a bibliographic review, grounded in authors such as Cunha (2011), Ferreira (2015), Klemz (2023), Orrú (2007), Padilha (2013), Rapoli (2010), and Rodrigues (2010), among others. The research provided an analysis of diagnoses, possible causes, treatments, and the evolution of therapeutic approaches related to ASD. It also discussed aspects of diversity within social, family, cultural, and economic contexts, which are often overlooked in the learning process. The study addressed concepts and legislation that protect the rights of autistic students, highlighting their characteristics, specific educational demands, and the challenges faced in achieving inclusion in regular education. Through the bibliographic review, it was possible to explore the evolution and history of inclusion, investigate teacher training, and analyze official documents and recent research related to the topic, aiming to contribute to the development of more inclusive practices in the educational field.