Autistic college students can ask their professors for supports. If you’ve watched Dr. Leverone’s STS video about demystifying interactions with your professor in office hours, you may be ready to speak with your instructor or professor. Talk to them about specific actions they can take to improve the classroom experience.
Additionally, you may want to visit the Disabilities Services Office (DSO) for formal accommodations. Diagnosed disabled students are legally entitled to accommodations and supports. If you don’t have a diagnosis, let this video support your self-advocacy. Talking directly to professors so that they understand your needs can have big payoffs in your classroom experience.
If you’re feeling nervous, it’s important to keep in mind that the supports you’re asking for are likely to benefit all of the students in the class. So go in feeling confident, ready to share, and open to dialogue.
We also have a useful template for approaching your college instructors here.
Building academic relationships with your professors can enhance your learning experience and set the foundation for future academic success. You can learn more about accommodations, best practices for college instruction, and interacting with your instructors from our savvy contributors. Read on!
Assistive Tech to Support Autistic Students in the Classroom
Three Assistive Technologies Autistic College Students Should Know
Five Tips for Autistic Students: How and When to Meet With a Professor
Student Core Issue: Understanding and Using College Resources
Spectrum Q & A With College Transition Consultant Susan Woods: Evaluating a Disability Office
And let us know if the comments if you have questions or comments..
This is terrific! I’m teaching a faculty workshop about accommodations right now, and how to deliver many of the most common by providing some of what you’ve mentioned for all students! I’m going to show them your video! Thank you!!!
I’m back to report that one instructor has decided that all her students will be allowed to prepare a 5×7 Memory Cue card for exams! So exciting to see instructors think about access for all! Another is in the process of updating all her assignments so they included numbered steps, bullet points, and assignment samples.