Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Neurodiversity Inclusive Practices In Higher Education: Using A Needs Assessment To Spur Change Throughout University Systems, Caitlin Rosica, Otd, Amy Carroll, Otd, Otr/L, Lady Rios-Vega, Otd, Roseann C. Schaaf, Phd

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Introduction

• Approximately 50% of autistic people have average or above average intelligence, and growing numbers of autistic young adults attend college.¹
• Autistic students experience poor outcomes in college despite being academically well qualified. 34.9% of autistic young adults attempt college within 6 years of high school.² Of those, approximately 39% will graduate.³
• In higher education, there may be a mismatch in supports needed by autistic students versus supports provided.
• Autistic students report difficulty with sensory overload, mental health concerns, and daily living tasks.⁴
• The majority of supports for autistic students focus on academics, which is a …