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University environments - what happens there that's different

longman

There is evidence in published literature, to which I can add my own observations, and certainly I have seen respondents here who benefitted during their university or college years.

Yet at the same time the benefits are often lost trying to cope in the world outside, whether work, social or housing.

Is there a case for research on what university type environments do or provide the environment or opportunities that help people on the spectrum?

One outcome might be techniques that could be incorporated into secondary education support, and also it could inform the world of work.

I am not aware of any such research being undertaken, though it might have fallen within the scope of the Sheffield Hallam research group, where I am not generally up to date on what's going on.

It could be simply that a lot of the restrictions and constraints of the secondary curriculum are absent, or that peer group pressure is lessened, or that there are better opportunities to develop special interests productively. It might be something universities do by accident, such as through some of the methods they try to use for disability support.

But it would seem a potentially fruitful environs in which to study how students benefit and what can be learned from this. Has anybody any ideas or strong views for or against?

  • Uni was bliss for me,, school was hell. I actually feel the world is two different places,, the rational functional builders and the destroyers. 20/80.

    I am introverted and public arena's/institutions, do not suit my autistic needs. I would love to see an aspergers college,, that would be fascinating place to learn. I think you could name it ASP MIT, ASP YALE or ASP STANFORD. Personally, I have so much to offer, but the NT world does not suit my needs. Wish I could sign up of a nano-chamber projects somewhere.;

    Good post longman and KaloJaro.., very good points, but still the universes today are full of NT's and I find them to much for me, but would love to back to Uni to complete a masters.

  • I've benefitted from living at Uni because of their attitude, they do emphasise how it's important to attend most lectures, but ultimately, its your choice about where to be, what to do etc. Also, the lack of formalities lets you form better bonds with you lecturers (first name usage is encouraged on my course).

    For me, in terms of my course, its seeing my lecturers as humans who have been into the industry and succeeded that has encouraged me to study willingly. I've also felt that my secondary school teachers were hypocrites, because I could barely see how most of the stuff I was learning would be relevant in everyday life, whereas at uni, I can ask how the techniques I learn will be useful, and helped in learning to apply them.

    I recieve support when I need it, I feel safe enough to approach my peers (who are now mature enough not to make fun of any of my 'quirks') for help, and vice versa, if anything, we're encouraged to tell each other what we struggle with, and help each other overcome our difficulties.

    Living on campus itself is also helpful as I don't have to worry much about commuting, and theres a building staffed 24/7 with someone who can help you with any problem in your flat at any time. Theres also around the clock sercurity which makes me feel safe enough to wander about campus without choking on my anxiety.

    The combination of support when requested, a safe feeling environment, laid back teachers, mature/friendly peers and knowledge of how what I'm learning will be useful in later life has given me more confidence in myself, and because I'm allowed to hone my skills and specialise as the course goes on, I'm now confident enough to believe I could even function in a work environment.