ERIC Number: ED647617
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 153
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-8417-6943-9
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
A Collective Case Study of Postsecondary Support Programs for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Whitney N. Jones
ProQuest LLC, D.Ed. Dissertation, Tarleton State University
The purpose of this study was to identify the ways existing autism support programs at postsecondary institutions are meeting the needs of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and how these programs aid in student persistence toward degree completion at one 2-year public institution, one 4-year public institution, and one 4-year private institution. Based on the qualitative data collected in this study through the interviews of the program manager five themes emerged: social support, peer mentoring, transition support, campus collaboration, and internal and external support. From this qualitative multiple case study, I conclude that social support is paramount to the success of students with ASD and a necessary element of autism support programs. As students matriculate to postsecondary institutions from high school, they require specialized transition programs and onboarding activities prior to and during their first year to become acclimated to campus life. Peer mentoring and campus collaboration with other entities, such as mental health services and career services, offer essential emotional and academic support to students with ASD. Finally, internal and external support is vital to establishing and maintaining autism support programs. Given the research study results, I recommend the following: (1) identify internal and external supporters and advocates; (2) conduct research and examine relevant literature; (3) become attuned to the experiences of students with ASD; (4) establish support elements that include social support, peer mentors, and a first-year experience course; (5) educate faculty and staff about working with students with ASD and understanding their needs; and (6) create assessment strategies to determine the effectiveness of autism support programs. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Autism Spectrum Disorders, College Programs, Two Year Colleges, Public Colleges, Private Colleges, Postsecondary Education, Program Administration, Administrator Attitudes, Student Personnel Services, Academic Persistence, Outcomes of Education, Educational Attainment, Success
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education; Two Year Colleges
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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