On the State of Higher Education Accommodations for Autistic Undergraduate Students in Appalachia
Location
D.P. Culp Center Ballroom
Start Date
4-5-2024 9:00 AM
End Date
4-5-2024 11:30 AM
Poster Number
176
Name of Project's Faculty Sponsor
Lorianne Mitchell
Faculty Sponsor's Department
Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management
Competition Type
Competitive
Type
Poster Presentation
Presentation Category
Social Sciences
Abstract or Artist's Statement
This study investigated the availability and quality of support for autistic students in higher education, with a specific focus on the unique challenges faced by those in Appalachia. Through the lens of the social model of disability, the research aimed to bridge gaps in the literature by synthesizing evidence-based approaches to address the needs of this student population. The project's objective was to understand the disparities in support services across the United States and explore the impact of regional factors, such as Appalachia’s unique economic profile and rural environments, on access to accommodations. This consisted of a comprehensive review of existing literature on autistic college students' support services and regional differences in accessibility in order to gather insights into the current state of accommodations and identify areas for improvement. Studying accommodations, equity, and access for autistic students in Appalachia held particular significance due to the region’s unique blend of cultural, economic, and geographical characteristics, and thus served as a valuable case study for advancing access for autistic students in higher education. Significant disparities in support for autistic students in Appalachia were highlighted, underscoring the need for targeted interventions such as individualized support, proactive community outreach, comprehensive protective and supportive public and institutional policies, and sufficient accommodation for academic, social, and sensory needs. Partnerships among stakeholders—family, staff, community, and otherwise—emerged as critical in addressing these disparities and fostering an environment where autistic students can thrive.
On the State of Higher Education Accommodations for Autistic Undergraduate Students in Appalachia
D.P. Culp Center Ballroom
This study investigated the availability and quality of support for autistic students in higher education, with a specific focus on the unique challenges faced by those in Appalachia. Through the lens of the social model of disability, the research aimed to bridge gaps in the literature by synthesizing evidence-based approaches to address the needs of this student population. The project's objective was to understand the disparities in support services across the United States and explore the impact of regional factors, such as Appalachia’s unique economic profile and rural environments, on access to accommodations. This consisted of a comprehensive review of existing literature on autistic college students' support services and regional differences in accessibility in order to gather insights into the current state of accommodations and identify areas for improvement. Studying accommodations, equity, and access for autistic students in Appalachia held particular significance due to the region’s unique blend of cultural, economic, and geographical characteristics, and thus served as a valuable case study for advancing access for autistic students in higher education. Significant disparities in support for autistic students in Appalachia were highlighted, underscoring the need for targeted interventions such as individualized support, proactive community outreach, comprehensive protective and supportive public and institutional policies, and sufficient accommodation for academic, social, and sensory needs. Partnerships among stakeholders—family, staff, community, and otherwise—emerged as critical in addressing these disparities and fostering an environment where autistic students can thrive.