Date of Graduation

5-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science Education

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Rehabilitation, Human Resources and Communication Disorders

Advisor/Mentor

Hagstrom , Fran

Committee Member/Reader

Greene, Aleza S

Committee Member/Second Reader

Aslin, Larry W.

Abstract

This research project explored the transition from high school to college for individuals who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview that focused on perceived goals for supporting students with autism who are college bound. Six faculty/staff members – two from a local high school and four from a major university – and two college students with autism spectrum disorder participated in the study. The interviews were audio recorded and transcribed word-for-word. The analysis consisted of identifying common themes across the participants. The faculty and staff at the college and high school level expressed many more concerns about the different issues students with autism face on a college campus in comparison to the answers provided by students. Time management and organization, emotional issues, and social issues were discussed in great detail. However, the categories relating to issues with academics and classroom behaviors, issues with the students’ ability to be introspective, executive function issues, and parental issues were addressed by the faculty and staff members. It is important to note the overlap in the first three categories of issues, but it is also important to acknowledge the fact that there were many issues addressed by the faculty and staff that were not mentioned by the students.

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