Autistic individuals frequently report that their experiences are minimized or reinterpreted by well-meaning nonautistic parents, researchers, educators, and allies. Although the inclusion of autistic voice is improving, obstacles persist, particularly in research with individuals who might be described as non-or minimally speaking. In this perspective piece, I present three arguments: (1) ableist assumptions and practices that equate speaking voice with rational voice have led to the exclusion of autistic voice in research; (2) technologies such as augmentative and alternative communication, including computers and tablets, can be both emancipatory and oppressive; and (3) researchers who commit to the practice of ethical listening improve opportunities for non-or minimally speaking autistic individuals to participate in research.

This study investigated the self-reported school experiences of autistic students in Canada using a critical disability framework and a phenomenological research lens. Student perception data were collected using a mixed-method convergent parallel research design. Quantitative survey data ( n = 72) and qualitative data ( n = 19 open-ended responses and n = 10 email interviews) were collected using asynchronous and synchronous methods. Students reported most favorably on their school experiences when they felt welcome, respected, and supported by teachers. This study’s unique finding is that over half of participants preferred to use non-speaking modes of communication because methods such as typing and drawing helped improve the clarity of their messages and minimize feelings of stress and anxiety.

No abstract

No abstract