The efficacy of using the New Zealand Child and Youth Profile in planning for children with autism spectrum disorder transitioning to school : stakeholder perspectives : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Educational Psychology at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
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Date
2019
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Massey University
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Abstract
This research explores use of the New Zealand Child and Youth Profile
(NZCYP), an in-depth information gathering and assessment tool designed
specifically for New Zealand educational contexts. The research centres on
educational planning for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
transitioning to school. Research shows that while it is essential to have
successful educational transitions, particularly for children with additional needs,
the processes involved in planning do not always meet best practice standards.
This study takes a phenomenological approach to exploring participants’
perceptions regarding the efficacy of using the NZCYP in planning for children
with ASD transitioning to school. This is answered by considering two key
aspects: how stakeholders perceive the functionality of the NZCYP in planning
for children with ASD transitioning to school, and how stakeholders perceive the
impact that using the NZCYP has on planning for children with ASD
transitioning to school.
The stakeholders (parents and teachers) of two children with ASD approaching
school age trialled the use of the NZCYP and were then interviewed
individually. The findings of this research indicate that the majority of
participants did find that the NZCYP helped to facilitate the planning for
transition to school of a child with ASD. Participants noted both an improvement
in their understanding of the child, and a higher standard of collaboration and
communication between stakeholders. It is hoped this study will inform
educational practitioners and parents about the suitability and benefits of using
the NZCYP in educational planning, particularly for children with ASD.
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Keywords
New Zealand Child and Youth Profile, Autistic children, Education (Early childhood), New Zealand, Readiness for school, Parents of autistic children, Teachers of children with disabilities, Attitudes