Research-Based Educational Support of Undergraduate Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

The numbers of college and university students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are steadily rising, but research on their academic performance reports mixed results. The diversity of the population makes it necessary to target each student individually. This paper describes an ongoing study and experience with pedagogical intervention for ten undergraduate IT students at Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) over several years. The intervention design is based on knowledge of research in the field and evidence-based practices, as well as professional skills. Data about student challenges and needs are collected from informal, open-ended interviews with students, in addition to conversations and observation. The goal is to ensure that the students achieve academical success. Plans are currently being made to develop a formal program that will target all students with autism spectrum disorders at OsloMet.