Teaching and Learning for High School Students With Autistic Spectrum Disorder in Ireland: A National Evaluation of Provision

• In Event: 49.084 - Autism Spectrum Disorders: Educational Placements and Supports

Abstract

This paper highlights findings from a national evaluation of educational provision for students with ASDs in Irish Post-Primary (high school) schools. A qualitative methodological approach was adopted. A purposive sample of sites in mainstream settings as well as special classes and special schools was used to collect data from early intervention settings through to post-primary schools. This paper addresses findings related to the post-primary sites only. An Evaluation Framework for Best Practice structured the findings according to four Statements: Teaching and Learning, Inclusive School Culture, School Management, and Staff Development. Findings pertinent to Teaching and Learning will be interrogated in terms of their potential to inform future national policy on the educational provision for students with ASD at post-primary level.

Authors

• Johanna Fitzgerald, Mary Immaculate College

• Siobhan O'Sullivan, Mary Immaculate College

• Marie Ryan, Mary Immaculate College

• Claire Griffin, Mary Immaculate College

• Patricia M Daly, Mary Immaculate College

• Emer Ring, Mary Immaculate College

• Eucharia McCarthy, Mary Immaculate College

• Stella Long, Mary Immaculate College/University of Limerick

• Anne O'Byrne, Mary Immaculate College

• Trevor O'Brien, Mary Immaculate College

• Eugene Wall, Mary Immaculate College

• Mary Moloney, Mary Immaculate College

• Margaret Egan, Mary Immaculate College