RapidPrompting Method:101 resuming Competence P

The concept we believe to be most fundamental to RPM is Presuming Competence.

Presuming competence means that we believe that students can learn and understand at an age appropriate level. Now, that doesn't mean that someone automatically knows everything that all people their age knows. For example, if the student has never been exposed to a particular topic or they were taught in a way that they couldn't best learn, they won't have depth of knowledge about the topic. Presuming competence means that when the environment is right for the student's learning and they're exposed to the topic, they can learn it at the same level as their neurotypical peers.

We know that learning expression varies. Oftentimes a person with autism may understand a topic but have difficulty expressing understanding due to their motor skills and body control. Rapid Prompting Method focuses on helping the student manage their body and works specifically on motor skills. As these skills progress the student is able to express their breadth of knowledge, thoughts and opinions about the topic. This is the reason presuming competence is so important!

So how does this translate to everyday life? Well, how we talk to one another is a result of how we think of them. Talking with a student, friend or family member in an age appropriate manner builds confidence, and is a sure way to show that you respect their intelligence and dignity. The topics we choose to talk about change based on the age and interests of a person, not because of a disability.

As we strive to deepen the quality of interactions in our neurodiverse relationships, it is important to remember that our words, choice of topics, and tone of voice all matter!

With dignity and respect,

Anna Speet RPM Program Director + Certified SOMA®RPM Practitioner