College
Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Date of Last Revision
2025-05-09 09:08:26
Major
Psychology
Honors Course
PSYCH 498-003
Number of Credits
3
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2025
Abstract
This qualitative study was conducted to understand the perspectives of providers located at the main campus at the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio when asked about their experiences working with students who have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis as well as what difficulties they view students on the spectrum facing in particular. Open-ended interviews were conducted with four staff members in the Office of Accessibility and Counseling and Testing Center. This qualitative study explored the perspectives of service providers at the University of Akron who work directly with students on the autism spectrum. Through in-depth interviews and subsequent inductive coding, thematic analysis and transcript analysis, the research investigated key themes related to students’ experiences and support needs in higher education. Findings revealed four major themes: (1) Access to Services in K-12 Education (2) Utilization of Academic Accommodations and Assistive Technology, (3) Persistent Academic Challenges, and (4) Social Challenges. Providers highlighted gaps in support systems while emphasizing the need for unified campus interventions to enhance academic success and social integration. The study offers recommendations for improving university-based services and fostering inclusive practices for autistic students in higher education while presenting the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in qualitative research.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Kevin Kaut
First Reader
Nathan Bitecofer
Second Reader
Dr. Shannon Zentall
Honors Faculty Advisor
Dr. Kevin Kaut
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Recommended Citation
Humphreys, Gillian, "University-Level Autism Support Services: Campus Providers’ Perspectives and Experiences" (2025). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 2027.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/2027
Included in
Cognitive Psychology Commons, Developmental Psychology Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons