Time: 12:00 PMLocation: Norton, MA

Time: 1:00 PMLocation: Medford, MA

Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025 Location: 46-3002 (Singleton Auditorium)Speaker: Helen Tager-Flusberg, Ph.D. Affiliation: Professor Emerita, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Boston UniversityHosts: Dr. Mriganka Sur, Dr. Ev FedorenkoTalk title: Rethinking the Place of Language in Autism Spectrum DisorderAbstract: Historically, deficits in language were among the defining characteristics of ASD, however they were eliminated in DSM 5 over a decade ago. This change reflected shifts in who was being diagnosed with ASD, including increasing numbers of verbally fluent individuals, as well as individuals with genetic syndromes, many of whom are non- or minimally-verbal. In this talk, I will survey developmental, psycholinguistic and neuroimaging research with the goal of identifying the nature of language/communication impairments, if any, that cross the full spectrum of ASD. Many factors contribute to the range of differences in language in ASD from sensory and motor; cognitive and linguistic but here, I propose that one unifying difference is in the structure and functioning of the speech-motor system. Discussion will then focus on evidence for this proposal as well as implications for advancing biological studies and informing treatment research.

We have two Sign Language Study Breaks coming up, with free Cafe 472 pizza and activities for all skill levels! When #1: Wed, March 12th, 4:30-6:00pmWhen #2: Wed, March 19th, 4:30-6:00pmWhere: MIT building 4, room 4-145What: Sign language practice + Cafe 472 pizzaRSVP (encouraged): https://asl.mit.edu/asl-study-break-rsvp-march-2025/ Come to socialize, learn the ASL fingerspelling alphabet, practice some basic signs, play sign language games, and for more experienced signers, we can practice conversational skills. All MIT community members are welcome! An ASL interpreter will be provided. Please RSVP to notify us of any other accommodations needed.

Tours last approximately one hour to 90 minutes.Explore Symphony Hall as experienced members of the Boston Symphony Association of Volunteers unfold the history of the Boston Symphony Orchestra — its musicians, conductors, and supporters — as well as offer information about the historic hall.Tours include public spaces in Symphony Hall, as well as select behind-the-scenes areas.ONLY FOR SPOUSES AND PARTNERS CONNECT