Perceptions of Literacy Instruction and Implications for Transition and Employment Outcomes for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Qualitative Study

摘要

The goal of education for a student with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is to help the person achieve a productive and independent life. This paper discusses the results of qualitative research that examine how educators in some Midwestern school districts describe the development of basic literacy skills by high school students with ASD. Important findings include the school districts' perceptions that (a) legal regulations often hamper the efforts of professionals who wish to impart literacy skills to students and (b) school districts' perceptions that parents have limited interest in literacy skills. Recommendations include suggestions about how laws could be modified and how pairing vocational rehabilitation counselors with professionals who work with students with ASD in public schools could improve the quality of life for students with ASD.