Date of Award
8-1-2019
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctorate of Education, Ed.D.
College
College of Education
Department
Education
First Advisor
Rinyka Allison, Ph.D.
Second Advisor
Anne Grey, Ed.D.
Third Advisor
Angelo Letizia, Ph.D.
Abstract
Through the passage of federal disability legislation, the opportunity to attain higher education exists for individuals experiencing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Researchers have examined the neurodevelopmental impact of ASD on students and the needs of students at colleges and universities. Since ASD affects the social communication of individuals, the researcher conducted a study to gather lived stories of the social experiences of students with ASD. Through a narrative methodology, three students provided lived stories of their social experiences at a higher education institution. Students provided stories through interviews and journal writing of their social interactions with instructors, peers, and staff. The researcher utilized narrative coding and problem-solution narrative in the analyzation of data. Students reported varied experiences with instructors, peers, and staff. Participants reported low interest and interactions at college events. Through the research, students from a traditionally marginalized population had a voice to share their experiences. The study increased awareness within the Autism community, families, and higher education institutions of the social experiences of students with ASD.