ERIC Number: ED671652
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Jun-5
Pages: 37
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Perspectives of Autistic Students and Their Teachers on Self-Determination and Peer Support
Grantee Submission
Autistic students may need individualized supports to meet their academic, social, and self-determination needs in inclusive classrooms. However, few evidence-based interventions have been developed to provide these supports for autistic adolescents, and little is known about the perceptions of autistic youth about these interventions in use in high schools. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of autistic students and their teachers on self-determination and peer support, as well as their thoughts about two evidence-based interventions used in their classroom settings: the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction and Peer Supports. An overall theme of empowerment was identified from student and teacher data collected across the interventions, which highlighted the importance of enabling students to access these interventions in inclusive environments. Autistic students experienced growth in understanding their identity and role as students, peers, and learners, and many felt empowered to set and achieve goals important to their future success. Teachers noted increased self-confidence and assertiveness in students pursuing their goals, highlighting the need for inclusive interventions that address positive in-school and post-school outcomes for secondary autistic students. [This paper was published in "Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders" 2024.]
Descriptors: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Students with Disabilities, Self Determination, Self Concept, Student Role, Student Empowerment, Self Esteem, Intervention, Evidence Based Practice, Student Attitudes, Teacher Attitudes, Peer Relationship, Program Effectiveness, High School Students, High School Teachers
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: Secondary Education; High Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Institute of Education Sciences (ED)
Authoring Institution: N/A
IES Funded: Yes
Grant or Contract Numbers: R324A200007
Department of Education Funded: Yes
Author Affiliations: 1University of Kansas; 2University of Virginia; 3University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill