Session 15: Lightning talk: Understanding how autistic students perceive transitions through university and the impact upon their mental health

Abstract

Background: Being at university is a significant transition period in a young adult’s life. Previous research has shown autistic students often face barriers transitioning into university, such as difficulties adjusting to independent living and study, and sensory and social challenges. Despite many autistic students possessing strengths that correspond with improved academic outcomes (e.g., good memory, and problem-solving skills), 40% do not complete their university studies. With less than 22% of autistic adults in employment, it is imperative autistic students support needs as they transition into, and through their undergraduate study are met to redress the inequalities they face.

Aim: Funded by the LJMU curriculum enhancement fund, this study aims to explore autistic undergraduate student’s experiences of transitioning into university from school/college and through the undergraduate levels. Also, the perceived impact these transitions have upon mental health will be explored.

Content: This lightning talk highlights autistic undergraduate students’ perceptions of the facilitators and barriers to transitioning into, and through, university, and the impact this has upon mental health. Views and opinions pertaining to the accessibility and acceptability of LJMU mental health support provision for autistic undergraduate students is also discussed. This research underscores the core LJMU strategy values of being an inclusive, caring community in which students are the central focus.

Take Home Message: Delegates will gain understanding of the experiences of autistic undergraduate students’ as they transition into and through the levels at LJMU; the perceived impact this has upon mental health, and the perceived suitability of support provision available at LJMU for autistic undergraduates.

Transferability: In the spirit of the core values underpinning the LJMU strategy, by putting students at the heart of everything we do and being inclusive, the findings from this project could inform further development of responsive support provision at LJMU for autistic undergraduates.

Understanding how autistic students perceive transitions through university and the impact upon their mental health PowerPoint. Only LJMU staff and students have access to this resource.