Making for Success: Promoting Vocational Readiness for Adults With Autism Through an Inclusive Makerspace Program

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 8:00 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Transitioning to Adulthood: Career Readiness and Inclusion for Students With Disabilities (Table 11)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a 10-week maker education program for adults with autism, and to collect pilot data on competencies and skills gained in four shops: Mat-Cutting/Framing, Laser Etching, Laser Cutting, and 3D printing. Task analyses were developed for two shops to monitor skill acquisition. Additionally, pre-post program competency assessments were administered. Competency gains were observed for four out of five participants from pretest to posttest on a measure encompassing all shops. Skill acquisition increased for all participants from the initial to the final session in each shop with prompts. This study underscores the importance of building skills and independence in the learning of design and advanced technology skills undergirding employment opportunities for adults with autism.

Authors

• Gabrielle A. Pignatelli, Rutgers University

• David J. Shernoff, Rutgers University

• Christopher Manente, Rutgers University

• Stephen Carter, Rutgers University