Accommodating neurodivergent pupils in EFL classes: ASD learners’ characteristics and obstacles influencing the process of EFL learning
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| Year of publication | 2024 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
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| Description | The presentation introduced partial findings of larger-scale research on ASD learners (diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome) and their classroom experience in EFL classes in the Czech Republic conducted at the Department of English Language and Literature, Faculty of Education, Masaryk University. Research on FLL of ASD pupils in the Czech Republic has been scarce, with mere solitary attempts at the level of bachelor’s or master’s thesis. This research aims to determine which ASD learners’ characteristics and/or obstacles (out of 22 defined) influence the process of FLL and whether the ASD learners consequently perceive the need for any significant adjustments or accommodations in the classroom environment and the teaching process. The sample consisted of ten ASD learners of English from lower- and upper-secondary schools and ten ASD adults. Purposive sampling (Silverman, 2013) was employed. Two methods of data collection (semi-structured interviews and qualitative surveys) were used to collect the data. The outcomes of the research present findings that are important for ELT teachers in terms of how to accommodate neurodivergent pupils in their classes. |