
“I Saw Things through a Different Lens…”: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study of the Experiences of Autistic Teachers in the Irish Education System
C O'Neill & N Kenny
This Autistic-led qualitative study explored the lived experiences of four Autistic teachers in the Irish education system, highlighting both their strengths, such as deep focus and empathetic relationships with students, and the challenges they face, including stigma, lack of autism awareness among colleagues, and unsuitable school environments. The study calls for increased autism understanding across the education system, including in teacher training and professional development, to foster more inclusive and neurodivergent-friendly environments.
“I Saw Things through a Different Lens…”: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study of the Experiences of Autistic Teachers in the Irish Education System
C O'Neill & N Kenny
This Autistic-led qualitative study explored the lived experiences of four Autistic teachers in the Irish education system, highlighting both their strengths, such as deep focus and empathetic relationships with students, and the challenges they face, including stigma, lack of autism awareness among colleagues, and unsuitable school environments. The study calls for increased autism understanding across the education system, including in teacher training and professional development, to foster more inclusive and neurodivergent-friendly environments.