A1 Journal article (refereed)
For a real job? : Views on the teaching of competence in working life by students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (2021)


Mäkinen, M. (2021). For a real job? : Views on the teaching of competence in working life by students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Nordic Journal of Vocational Education and Training, 11(3), 66-87. https://doi.org/10.3384/njvet.2242-458x.2111366


JYU authors or editors


Publication details

All authors or editorsMäkinen, Marika

Journal or seriesNordic Journal of Vocational Education and Training

eISSN2242-458X

Publication year2021

Publication date09/12/2021

Volume11

Issue number3

Pages range66-87

PublisherLinköping University Electronic Press

Publication countrySweden

Publication languageEnglish

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.3384/njvet.2242-458x.2111366

Publication open accessOpenly available

Publication channel open accessOpen Access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX)https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/79066


Abstract

In this study, twelve young students on the autism spectrum were interviewed on preparation for working life, employment guidance, the challenges and strengths of the autism spectrum, and suitable teaching methods. Interviews were supported by a structured and illustrated questionnaire. The data were analysed using key statistics. The results showed that, from the students’ perspective, the most important issues in preparation for work are familiarisation with different jobs, guidance in searching for a suitable job, evaluation of the suitability of the working environment, integration of occupational safety into work skills, and acquiring conversational skills in the workplace. The selection of a suitable working environment is clearly emphasised before transitioning to work. Acquiring and keeping a job require investing in social situations and skills in studying. The structuring should be flexible and adaptable according to situations and personal needs. Educationally, social interaction, social skills, and communication should form a coherent whole. The main goal for everyday life ought to be communicative and based on a structure for acquiring different skills. The results can be utilised in a vocational education and training (VET) context, because they support the importance of preparatory education as part of these studies. In addition, the results can also be used in on-the-job learning plans for VET.


Keywordsstudentsautism spectrum disordersaccess to employmentvocational education and trainingpreparatory educationtransferable skillscommunicative skillsparticipation

Free keywordsautism spectrum disorder (ASD); employment; preparatory education; communication; participation


Contributing organizations


Ministry reportingYes

VIRTA submission year2021

JUFO rating1


Last updated on 2024-12-10 at 11:16