Studies focusing on a joint evaluation of both Working Memory (WM) and Math
Ability (MA) in autism are far from abundant in literature, possibly due to inadequate
methodological approaches and reported inconsistencies between results obtained in
each separate field of research, resulting in contradictory conclusions. The specific aim
of this case report is therefore evaluating and integrating results on these two cognitive
abilities in a child with autism spectrum disorder without intellectual impairment. Our
data on an autistic 10-year-old child (M.N.) show that the levels of functional (active
vs. passive), rather than structural (phonological vs. visual), data manipulation are quite
relevant in the way the child scored differently in the various tasks. Furthermore, M.N.
generally displayed average to good ability levels in math calculation, except for oral
multiplication, and division activities. By way of conclusion, data are discussed in terms
of strengths and weaknesses in relation to special learning trajectories in education and
the relevant achievements.
