ENHANCING TEACHER PRACTICES IN ASSESSING FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD): AN EMPIRICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Youth students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are at higher risk of functional skills deficiency, which presents a barrier to the acquisition of academic skills. This study examines teachers’ practices in determining the functional performance of students with ASD in stage-based education pathways in Kenya. A quantitative research design was employed, involving 47 teachers and 76 students with ASD from various primary schools. Data were collected using a self-administered rating scale for teachers and a modified version of the Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales for students. Descriptive and sequential regression analyses were conducted to evaluate teacher practices and their impact on students’ functional skills. Findings show that the identification and use of instructional resources were the most frequently performed practices among teachers, while the assessment of functional skills was the least. The study found significant correlations between teacher practices and students’ functional skill acquisition, particularly communication skills. However, the relationships among teacher practices were generally weak, indicating a lack of integration in their approaches. The study concludes that a comprehensive approach, incorporating multiple assessment practices, is essential for improving student outcomes. Recommendations include targeted professional development for teachers, standardized assessment practices, and increased collaboration with parents to support functional skill development in students with ASD. These findings underscore the need for enhanced training and resource access to optimize educational outcomes within the Competency-Based Curriculum framework.

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