Exploring Indigenous Approaches to Autism in Education

The overall aim of this research is to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of Indigenous autistic students, their families, teachers and communities by more deeply understanding Indigenous approaches to autism and intervening in settler colonialist and ableist policy and practice. The research is located in Brandon, Manitoba. The research questions, which will be explored through sharing circles and multimedia storytelling are: What are the experiences of Indigenous autistic students and their families, teachers and communities? How might an Indigenous approach to autism and inclusion improve educational experiences and outcomes? This community-engaged project addresses a gap in existing educational literature around autism and inclusion from Indigenous perspectives, including the historical exclusion of Indigenous people from autism diagnosis and Indigenous informed supports. The research and its outputs (summary report of findings, short educational videos) will benefit publics schools, teacher education programs, service providers and community organizations in Manitoba and Canada; advance knowledge across broad academic disciplines (inclusive education, teacher education, disability studies, decolonial studies, social justice education, qualitative research, arts-based research, multimedia storytelling) and respond to the TRC calls for action in education.

Faculty Supervisor:

Patty Douglas

Student:

Partner:

Brandon Friendship Centre Inc.;Manitoba Métis Federation

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Education; Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

Brandon University

Program: