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Distraction, Distress and Diversity: Exploring the impact of sensory processing differences on learning and school life for pupils with autism spectrum disorders

Jones, E.K.; Hanley, M.; Riby, D.M.

Distraction, Distress and Diversity: Exploring the impact of sensory processing differences on learning and school life for pupils with autism spectrum disorders Thumbnail


Authors

E.K. Jones



Abstract

Background: Many individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) experience sensory differences that impact daily functioning. This study aimed to capture parent and teacher perspectives on how sensory differences affect learning and life at school for pupils with ASD. Method: Fifty-seven parents and seventy UK teachers completed a bespoke online questionnaire that focused on the type of sensory experiences encountered at school and how these experiences impacted learning and school life for autistic pupils. Results: Despite considerable heterogeneity in the experiences perceived as enjoyable or distressing, parents and teachers reported that sensory experiences at school were frequently negative. Data indicate that it was largely negative sensory experiences that impacted learning, in turn causing distraction, anxiety and limited participation. Although five teachers highlighted positive sensory experiences, the examples offered focused on children’s ability to engage in classroom activities, once their sensory needs had been met (e.g. using weighted blankets). Factors including predictability of sensory input, school resources, and staff knowledge minimized sensory disruption. Conclusions: According to teachers and parents, sensory experiences significantly impact learning and school life for autistic pupils and these findings can inform teacher training and intervention development.

Citation

Jones, E., Hanley, M., & Riby, D. (2020). Distraction, Distress and Diversity: Exploring the impact of sensory processing differences on learning and school life for pupils with autism spectrum disorders. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 72, Article 101515. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rasd.2020.101515

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Jan 15, 2020
Online Publication Date Feb 1, 2020
Publication Date Apr 30, 2020
Deposit Date Jan 22, 2020
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Print ISSN 1750-9467
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 72
Article Number 101515
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rasd.2020.101515

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