F1A: Building Trust in Our Autistic Students: From Research to Practice

The establishment of robust trust between Autistic students and educators is essential for their academic progress, socio-emotional development, and intrinsic motivation. When educators are perceived as reliable and supportive, students experience a heightened sense of security, which mitigates anxiety and facilitates more effective engagement with the curriculum. This secure foundation encourages intellectual risk-taking, such as active inquiry and participation, which collectively enhances academic engagement and attainment. 

Contemporary research highlights the critical nature of this professional bond. A 2023 study by Smith et al. indicated that neurodiverse students, specifically those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), who reported high levels of trust in their instructors demonstrated significant advancements in academic self-efficacy. Jones (2022) observed that trust-based relationships are associated with a reduction in behavioral challenges. Furthermore, Lee et al. (2019) underscored the significance of trust in fostering inclusive environments, noting that educator empathy and acceptance ensure students feel valued, thereby improving self-esteem and social competencies. 

Collectively, these findings suggest that trust serves as a fundamental prerequisite for the academic and emotional prosperity of neurodiverse learners. This presentation delineates strategies for establishing trust with Autistic individuals, translating empirical research into practical applications for classroom and clinical settings. It addresses the distinct requirements and capabilities of learners with ASD, with an emphasis on creating productive, inclusive environments that cultivate confidence and sustained engagement.

Learning Outcomes:

Examine ASD through a neurodiversity lens and its impact on learning and mental health needs.

Identify research-based strategies for building trust with ASD students.

Develop practical classroom applications to support ASD learners.

Assess the effectiveness of strategies and adapt instruction and mental health interventions accordingly.

Speakers