Inclusive practices in higher education – autism spectrum disorder

report of a strategy aimed at the teaching and learning process

Abstract

The experience report discusses inclusive practices in higher education for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The paper presents ASD as a neurobiological condition that affects social interaction and interests, with an estimated prevalence of 1% of the world population. The need for inclusive practices in higher education stands out, exemplified by the course “Inclusive Practices in Higher Education: Area of Autism Spectrum Disorder – ASD”, offered by the Federal University of São Paulo (Unifesp). The objective of the course was to identify factors that make it difficult for university students with ASD to access resources and content guaranteed by law, in addition to disseminating strategies to improve their achievement. Using the virtual learning environment Moodle from the UAB Center at Unifesp, the course provided reading materials, videos and activities, following the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) guidelines and considering the specificities of students with ASD. The course had 29 participants, including teachers, Unifesp technicians and external audiences. Participants' reports indicate that the course contributed to promoting an inclusive educational environment, welcoming diversity and valuing individual differences, with the aim of achieving inclusion for all in the future.