1. A Look at Non-Academic Accommodations for Students who Experience Autism and Live in the Residence Hall: A research study at Oregon State University by Disability Access Services (DAS)
Earlee Kerekes-Mishra,
Disability Access Services, Oregon State University
Martha R. Smith, Disability Access Services, Oregon State University

2. Background - Purpose of Research Project
Living on Campus:
How, why, what...
Story of student not being able to find quiet unless in shower. An intensive study floor/hall/fling (other accommodations we were already working with UHDS on) private room, specific location of the room, identifying quiet spaces across campus, etc.
OSU Live-on Requirement
Uptick in Requests for Exemption
Increase in contact with DAS, RA’s and Counseling Services
Accommodations/options already in place

3. Building the Research Project
3 prong approach
ASD Students
Parents
RA’s
First hand information from ASD students regarding their experiences in the residence hall and what might be needed to be more accessible and more positive living experience.

4. Participant population requirements
Experiencing ASD -- Not formally diagnosed
Currently living on campus or an incoming First Year student
Not required to be registered with Disability Access Services
Recruitment
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Student Health Services (SHS)
University Housing and Dining Services (UHDS)

5. Research plan -- the changing seasons
Fall term: Initial contact/recruitment.
Winter term: First interview. Initial survey sent to parents.
Spring term: 2nd interview with students. Interview with RA’s. Parent end of year survey.

6. Charting the course…

7. 2016-17 Participants True freshman (1), transfers (2), 2nd year (1)
Male and female -- 2 of each
Age range 18-50
1 set of parents
1 RA (2)

8. Themes from students Clearer and more detailed information
Single rooms
Study in their own rooms or the library
All students understood the rules of the residence hall
Clearer information on how to pick a roommate that meets your needs
Detailed information on residence halls were really like (video walkthroughs)
Specific procedures for end of year move out

9. Themes from Parents Early move-in
Clean the room to the students standards
Have the room available for the student to see prior to move in date

10. Perceived as any other socially awkward student
Themes from RA’s
Perceived as any other socially awkward student
Wants to know how to effectively communicate with students experiencing ASD

11. Wrap up
Next steps in the project

12. Questions Earlee Kerekes-Mishra 541-737-4098
Martha Smith