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. 2016 Jan;46(1):31-41.
doi: 10.1007/s10803-015-2535-1.

Educational Experiences and Needs of Higher Education Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Ru Ying Cai  1 , Amanda L Richdale  2
Affiliations

Educational Experiences and Needs of Higher Education Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Ru Ying Cai et al. J Autism Dev Disord. 2016 Jan.

Abstract

Little research directly examines the needs of post-secondary students with ASD. The experiences and support needs of 23 students with ASD enrolled in two universities and four colleges, and 15 family members were explored in 15 semi-structured focus groups. Thematic analysis identified five themes: core ASD features, co-morbid conditions, transition, disclosure, and services and support. Most students felt educationally but not socially supported; most families felt support was poor in both areas. Transition from secondary school was often unplanned, and disclosure of diagnosis usually occurred after enrolment, often following a significant problem. Many parents provided substantial student support. Thus disclosure of ASD diagnosis and meeting the individual needs of these students are important considerations as higher education enrolments increase.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; Higher education; Students; Transition.

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