Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Preparing Students to Transition to College and Succeed

Overview: This webinar will identify the range of individual characteristics displayed by students on the Autism Spectrum, explain what happened to Asperger's Syndrome, and review the challenges of college life for students with ASD. Participants will learn practical strategies to assist, coach, and support students on the Autism Spectrum as they transition to living independently and are stretched academically, socially, and personally. At the end of this program, participants will have a better understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder and how they can help college students on the Autism Spectrum achieve success.

Why should you attend: Without a concrete plan and accurate understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), parents and students will be ill-equipped to cope with the challenges of transitioning to college and experiencing academic, social, and personal success. College life can be overwhelming for the student on the autism spectrum who struggles with sensory sensitivities and communication and interpersonal deficits. 

Areas Covered in the Session:

• New DSM 5 criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• What happened to Asperger’s Syndrome?
• Abilities and deficits of college students on the Autism Spectrum
• Compare and contrast K-12 vs. post-secondary roles and responsibilities for students and their parents
• Challenges students face in a variety of self management, academic, and social areas (eg., time management and study schedules, sleeping and healthy eating habits, study skills, interpersonal relationships)
• Description of sensory sensitivities
• Behavior management and conduct issues
• Review of helpful campus resources and reasonable accommodations
• Strategies to encourage self advocacy and appropriate communication with instructors
• Tips for supporting students in their social and interpersonal interactions
• Approaches to mitigating sensory sensitivities
• Academic, social, and personal campus resources
• Stress management techniques and role play exercises for students
• Examples of colleges and universities with programs for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder