Teaching University Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Guide to Developing Academic Capacity and Proficiency

Kim Draisma · Kimberley McMahon-Coleman

Jun 2016 · Jessica Kingsley Publishers

About this ebook

Based on the findings of a five year longitudinal study into the experiences of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), this book provides tertiary educators and support staff with practical support for addressing the challenges associated with ASD as they manifest in college and university environments. It explores issues such as:

· Interpreting assignment tasks
· Unwritten expectations and codes of conduct
· Rigidity of thinking
· Project planning
· Self-monitoring
· Multi-tasking and central coherence

The authors suggest practical strategies for better accommodating students with ASD in the inclusive classroom. Chapters include case studies of individual students, which provide real world examples of possible issues and successful interventions, making this an essential resource for all those involved in supporting students with ASD in tertiary education settings.

About the author

Dr Kim Draisma is the former Head of Learning Development at the University of Wollongong, Australia. She has nearly 30 years of experience in Learning Development, having established the first learning support programmes and service at the university in 1985. During this time she has worked with numerous students on the spectrum and supported them to success.
Dr Kimberley McMahon-Coleman is the current Disabilities Specialist in Learning Development at the University of Wollongong. She sees numerous students with ASD in one-to-one consultations each semester, and works with Disability Liaison staff to help students develop their academic proficiencies.