Introduction
The topic of my EPQ was "What is autism and what strategies can support autistic pupils in education?" This topic was particularly significant to me because I have personally experienced inadequate support during my education, leading to me leaving school. I wanted my project to make a positive change for autistic pupils in education by raising awareness among SEN workers and teachers about what autism is and what strategies can be used to help these students.
Research Objectives
I broke down my essay into smaller aims and objectives, including:
- Clearly explaining what autism is so that my essay is accessible for all readers.
- Researching the characteristics of autism to explain ASD and why autistic pupils might struggle in school.
- Linking my primary and secondary research to determine if they recommend the same strategies, and identifying any gaps in the existing research that my interviews could fill.
Exploring Autism and its Characteristics
My primary research involved interviewing Special Educational Needs workers in schools to gain insights into the strategies they use to support autistic pupils. I discovered that these workers have a strong understanding of what autism is, as well as the specific characteristics of autism that I discussed in my essay.
Characteristics of Autism
My research revealed the following characteristics of autism:
- Autistic people may have sensory issues related to sound, smell, lights, and other stimuli in their environment.
- Pupils on the spectrum struggle with executive function, making it difficult for them to manage their time and complete daily tasks.
- Stimming, or self-stimulatory behavior, is a positive characteristic of autism that can help individuals feel happy and destress.
- Boys are diagnosed with autism more than girls, and there are societal factors that contribute to the low diagnosis rate among girls.
Strategies for Supporting Autistic Pupils
The primary research also identified strategies used by SEN workers to support autistic pupils in education. These strategies include:
- Allowing students to stim for enjoyment as long as it doesn't harm them or others, and providing fidget toys for stimulation and sensory issues.
- Creating a quiet environment or using ear defenders to help students with sensory issues related to sound.
- Assisting students in managing meltdowns by providing a safe space for emotional regulation and showing understanding and support.
- Implementing visual learning tools like timetables and zones of regulation to help with executive function and ensure completion of schoolwork.
These strategies and support mechanisms are crucial for creating a conducive learning environment for autistic pupils and ensuring that they receive the necessary support to thrive in an educational setting. The findings of my research not only contribute to the understanding of autism but also provide practical insights for educators and support workers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential to emphasize that understanding and implementing effective strategies for supporting autistic pupils in education is crucial. By raising awareness about autism and the specific needs of autistic individuals, we can create inclusive and supportive educational environments that cater to the diverse needs of all students. Through further research and practical application, we can continue to enhance our approach to educating and supporting individuals with autism.
Autism is a spectrum, and it is important to ensure that individuals with autism receive the support and understanding they need to reach their full potential.
