Autism Symposium  Series

Autism Symposium Series

Neuro-Affirming Educational Environments
18 October 2025 | DCU St Patrick’s Campus

Accessible and Collaborative Research Network (ACoRN)

The opening session of the Autism Symposium Series gathered educators, students, and community members to explore perspectives on how education environments can genuinely support access and participation for autistic people.

In the first talk of the seminar, Dr Neil Kenny presented co-produced research that explored the experiences of autistic students and staff in higher education in Ireland, highlighting the importance of belonging, predictable supports, and clear communication.

Dr Mary Doherty spoke next and provided a deeply personal discussion of the experience of overwhelm and the associated sensory impacts. She also discussed the process of returning to self-regulation. This talk focused on personal experience and autistic experience.

Elaine McGoldrick shared a discussion which focused on the recently published article “Autistic SPACE for Inclusive Education” which discusses the application of the autistic developed framework to inclusive education practice. Her talk discussed school-based strategies for embedding autistic voices and creating sensory-friendly learning spaces.

Dr Maggie Green provided the last talk, which reported findings from interviews with autistic academics across Irish higher education, revealing structural barriers in recruitment, induction, and collegial relationships, while noting the positive impact of autistic educators on students.

A concluding panel Q&A invited practical ideas for fostering neuro-affirming environments and supporting autistic flourishing in Irish higher education.

The recording of the session can be accessed AT THIS LINK.