What is this project about?
This project is about inclusive education for autistic students. The purpose of this project is to develop a National Guidance for best practice in inclusive education for autistic students.
Who is undertaking this work?
This is an Autism CRC project, funded by the Australian Government. The project is being undertaken by researchers from Griffith University, Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and La Trobe University.
Who will use the National Guidance?
The National Guidance is intended for teachers, educators, school leaders, medical and allied health professionals like occupational therapists, psychologists and speech therapists. The aim is to help these people who work in schools know how to best support positive social, emotional and academic outcomes for autistic children and youth.
How will we develop the National Guidance?
We have looked at the research evidence on inclusive education for autistic students, while seeking the experiences and views of a wide range of people about what helps and what hinders autistic students in schools. We have heard from autistic students, adults, parents, teachers and other specialist professionals, as well as school leaders. We are using this information to help us understand what is important for people who work in schools to know about how to best support autistic students.
What areas of education will the National Guidance cover?
The National Guidance will look at supporting autistic students in mainstream schools. This will include public and private sectors, primary and secondary schools, kindergartens, pre-schools and early childhood settings that deliver a curriculum like the Early Years Learning Framework.
What won’t this include?
Our focus is on inclusive education in mainstream school settings, guided by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (General Comment No. 4, CRPD, 2016). It will not explicitly consider education in segregated, exclusionary or special school settings.
Who is involved in this project?
This project is being led by three experienced researchers, Professor Dawn Adams, Professor Suzanne Carrington and Dr Emma Goodall, who have expertise in the areas of autism, inclusive education, early childhood, primary and secondary teaching and psychology. The research team also includes autistic and non-autistic researchers. You can find out more about the project team.
We are also working with other experts, departments of education at State and Federal levels, and organisations that work with autistic students, youth and/or their families. You can find out more about who else is involved in our co-production process.
Why is Autism CRC coordinating this work?
Autism CRC has a long history of cross-sector collaboration leading to the development of practical, evidence-based recommendations and resources that support sound decision-making and children’s and families’ access to safe, effective, and appropriate supports.
How can you be part of this?
The final consultation is now open and will close on Sunday 15 March at 11:59pm AEST (QLD time). To find out more go to the Draft release page. We have run community consultation at different times throughout the project. These activities have included online surveys, focus group discussions and a Delphi study. Find out more on the What we've done so far page.
How can you find out more?
If you have any questions about this project, you can contact us at ieg@autismcrc.com.au.