IMPEDIMENTS TO EFFECTIVE VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR LEARNERS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46827/ejse.v11i7.6399Keywords:
Autism Spectrum Disorder, impediments, vocational rehabilitation, transitioning, social skill deficit, communication barriers, interventions, mixed method researchAbstract
Transitioning learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder into broader societal contexts involves preparing them for various aspects of adult life, including education, employment, and independent living. Research indicates that individuals with autism face barriers such as limited social skills, difficulties in communication, and a lack of access to tailored vocational training. The current study aimed at examining challenges faced by an elected vocational rehabilitation centre while preparing learners with ASD for transitioning to society in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The study employed a mixed-methods research design. Results revealed that learners faced a myriad of challenges, such as anxiety, stigma, social skills deficits, and communication barriers, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and societal awareness programs to facilitate successful integration. Learners with autism require structured, individualized, and sensory-friendly training approaches to enhance their employability and independence.
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