The Problems Encountered by the Individuals with Autism Attending Higher Education During the Distance Education Process

Abstract

Coronavirus disease which broke out in Wuhan/China in December 2019, identified as the Covid-19 Pandemic in a short time by the WHO (World Health Organization) (WHO,2020). Countries took many precautions as the virus spread to the whole world. After the rise in the numbersof the positive cases and deaths, distance education process started on 23rd of May 2020 as it started all around the world in order not to hinder the right to access education. Education carried out through distance education in higher education institutes and in schools of Ministry of National Education. After the problems encountered in the distance education process, lots of studies have been done on this subject. When the studies in the literature examined, no studies can be found on the problems of individuals with autism attending higher education. This study uses a qualitative approach and conducted through semi-structured interviews done with the parents of three higher education students with autism who studies in Konya. The results show that these students have problems in access to education, social interaction and the support that families need. Results also reveals that the teaching methods and homework aren’t suitable for these students and these make them reluctant and indifferent to the lessons. Participants stated that they need to be informed about the process and they need psychological and social support. Suggestions for the implementation and further researches are made in light of the results of the study.

Keywords

• autism spectrum disorder
• individual with special needs
• online teaching.