Embracing neurodiversity in education: promoting the inclusion of autistic students in education through podcasts

Abstract

The purpose of this portfolio is to share how students with an autism diagnosis can benefit when their teachers, principals, guidance counselors, and peers learn about neurodiversity. In my project, I asked the following questions to explore ways educators can create an inclusive school community for Autistic students. 1. What are the experiences of Autistic youth in secondary schools? (Exploring behavior, anxiety, sensory differences, gender, and special interests). 2. How does promoting the neurodiversity mindset among students and educators promote the inclusion of Autistic students in secondary schools? I also sought to explore strategies that support inclusion in the classroom and school community. The findings provide insight into the strategies and approaches that educators and parents can use to foster social development, inclusion, and acceptance of students with an autism diagnosis. In my literature review, I noted many Autistic authors and share their insights as well as ideas for incorporating strategies for inclusion and also explored how the neurodiversity perspective benefits all students (Armstrong, 2012; Garcia, 2021; Honeybourne, 2018; Kapp et al., 2019; Loud Hands, 2012; Majoko & Majoko, 2016; Nerengerg, 2020; Price, 2022; Silberman, 2015; Walker, 2021). The objective of this portfolio was to develop a space where I could share and amplify Autistic people’s work, share strategies to better support Autistic people for inclusion, and explore the concept of neurodiversity in education in the form of podcasts. I also had the idea that these podcasts could potentially carry on after this portfolio work. In the end, I hope to share my work with colleagues, friends, and family to encourage inclusion of Autistic people in terms of what Autistic people are saying about inclusion.