Intellectually capable but socially excluded? A review of the literature and research on students with autism in further education

As autism is a social learning disability it is a disadvantage in any social setting such as a classroom. The 1990s saw a surge of young people diagnosed with autism who are now approaching college age; indeed there is evidence that students with autism are becoming a significant cohort in further education. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that such students are often the subject of substantial barriers due to a general lack of awareness and understanding of autism, and its educational implications. We report here the results of our review – for the Dudley College – of literature and research relating to autism in further education. After setting the scene, we highlight key research findings and guidance from the literature on how to break down barriers.