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SPCE 292: Treatment and Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders

Learn some research tips for your assignments requiring you to find information sources.

Resources for a young adult with autism

Your assignment:

"Conduct an internet search for resources for a young adult with autism spectrum disorder who has recently graduated high school. This person has the possibility to go to college, but may also enter the workforce. They are unsure of their housing opportunities and need information on the different supportive living options for an individual with ASD. Please provide them with six (6) resources that will help with their transition beyond high school. Of the six, three are specific resources [listed in Canvas description] and the other three may be of your choosing. See the assignment description [in Canvas] for more information."

Evaluate your Internet results

Google search box with "autism and..." in the box.As you conduct your Internet search, bear in mind that it will be your responsibility to choose information coming from a trusted source.  Whereas the articles you find from searching in library databases have all gone through some kind of editorial/vetting process, you can't count on that when you're searching the open Internet via Google or another search engine; thus, you need to evaluate what you find.

Just as when you're looking for academic research, be cautious of sites whose address ends in .com, indicating they're commercial sites.  That's not always a red flag, but concentrating on .org sites (non-profit organizations) can keep your focus on sites that don't have advertisers they need to please.

Consider searching for advice from trusted organizations who advocate for individuals with autism.  And remember that the transition from high school to adulthood involves more than just finding a supportive place to live.  You'll want to search on a variety of topics to come up with the best list of resources to provide this young adult.