Location
Morgan
Session Format
Presentation
Abstract
This three-year action research study, currently in its first year of implementation, pairs Kennesaw State autistic undergraduate and graduate students with trained student researchers who serve as liaisons and support resources. These researchers address behavioral and social challenges in college settings, including miscommunication with peers or professors, executive functioning difficulties, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Through mentorship and advocacy, the project seeks to reduce risks of mental health issues, academic withdrawal, and future under- or unemployment. The mixed methods include single-case research design and quantitative analysis, incorporating pre- and post-intervention normed assessments to evaluate impact. Preliminary results show a positive gain in social, study, and communication skills among participating students. Researchers plan to expand the study to include local high school juniors and seniors who intend to attend the university, creating a bridge in the transition from special education services to college-level accommodations.
Keywords
autism support, college transition, executive functioning, social skills, communication skills
Professional Bio
Michael Ota teaches graduate-level courses in Teacher Leadership and Educational Leadership at Kennesaw State University. His research focuses on promoting community inclusion in the special education eligibility process, with a current emphasis on autism. With over 20 years of experience in education, Michael has taught across PK–12, community college, and university settings. His leadership background includes advocacy, educational policy development, and district-level expertise in autism-related services. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), he brings a clinical perspective to educational practice. Michael also has national and international experience in instructional technology, particularly in mathematics curriculum and assessment.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Ota, Michael; Carter, Gabrielle; and Mittal, Anna, "Student Liaisons for Autism: Using College Students in Bridging the Communication Gap" (2026). Georgia Educational Research Association Conference. 47.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/gera/2026/2026/47
Student Liaisons for Autism: Using College Students in Bridging the Communication Gap
Morgan
This three-year action research study, currently in its first year of implementation, pairs Kennesaw State autistic undergraduate and graduate students with trained student researchers who serve as liaisons and support resources. These researchers address behavioral and social challenges in college settings, including miscommunication with peers or professors, executive functioning difficulties, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Through mentorship and advocacy, the project seeks to reduce risks of mental health issues, academic withdrawal, and future under- or unemployment. The mixed methods include single-case research design and quantitative analysis, incorporating pre- and post-intervention normed assessments to evaluate impact. Preliminary results show a positive gain in social, study, and communication skills among participating students. Researchers plan to expand the study to include local high school juniors and seniors who intend to attend the university, creating a bridge in the transition from special education services to college-level accommodations.
