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Study finds college students with autism face challenges in schools
Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in post-secondary education are encountering difficulties in areas ranging from academic learning and social communication to career development, as revealed in an EOC-funded study conducted by The Chinese University of Hong Kong’s Department of Educational Psychology released on 23 February.
Thirty college students with ASD with varying autistic characteristics and academic backgrounds were interviewed in the study to speak about their experiences. Other participants included eight parents of college students with ASD, 10 college teaching staff members, eight college professional support staff members and nine neurotypical students who have experiences of interacting with college students with ASD.
Some students with ASD found post-secondary curriculum too “abstract” and “unstructured”, compared to secondary schools where they can learn with concrete guidance. Some expressed concerns over navigating social life, such as participating in group projects and living in a hostel on campus. Implicit social rules were complex for them to discern and understand. The study also found that others’ limited understanding of ASD and low sensitivity of their needs, coupled with institutional policies, hindered college students with ASD to seek help, further exacerbating their learning challenges and mental health needs.
The research team suggests to set up a systematic support framework across institutions with clearly delineated roles and functions of different stakeholders within the college community, so that students and stakeholders can get access to relevant services more smoothly. Teaching and support staff in tertiary education should also be provided with more training about special educational needs (SEN), specifically ASD. Adopting a strength-based approach to explore the unique strengths and abilities of each student is crucial to their long-term development. It is believed that enhancing awareness and understanding of ASD in colleges and society is paramount to creating an autism-friendly environment and promoting inclusion.
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