Enhancing awareness of autism spectrum disorder among university students

Jaffer, Usman and Shamsool, Ajwa Raudha and Mohd Jamberos, Athila Aisyah and Jaafar, Jamaliah and Jafri, Muhammad Faris and Mohd Nor Hairi, Munirah Izyan and Mohammad Zakaria, Nur Syafiqah Shuzarina and Che Mohd Nassir, Che Mohd Nasril and Ahmed, Mohamed Ayaaz and Ahmad H.Osman, Rahmah (2024) Enhancing awareness of autism spectrum disorder among university students. nternational Journal of Education, Psychology and Counselling (IJEPC), 9 (56). pp. 985-996. E-ISSN 0128-164X

PDF - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (290kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behaviour, often resulting in social stigmatization and employment barriers. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a targeted awareness campaign in increasing knowledge and fostering positive attitudes toward ASD among undergraduates at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). A mixed-methods approach was employed. Qualitatively, semi-structured interviews with staff at Akademi Remaja Islam Autisma (ARISMA) provided localized insights into the challenges experienced by young adults with ASD. Quantitatively, 50 undergraduate students completed a pre-test and post-test questionnaire adapted from Alsehemi et al. (2017). Paired-sample t-test results indicated a significant increase in the participants’ knowledge and awareness of ASD after engaging with the campaign, demonstrated by a rise in mean scores from 26.02 to 30.42 (p < .05). Qualitative feedback indicated that the campaign’s digital infographics effectively disseminated information on ASD, but participants suggested more interactive, in-person events for broader impact. The findings corroborate the importance of targeted awareness and education programs in reducing stigma and promoting inclusion for individuals with ASD. Future recommendations include expanding the sample size, refining campaign materials for greater accessibility, and implementing longitudinal evaluations to assess sustained changes in knowledge, attitudes, and practices.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Awareness Campaign,Inclusive Education,KAP Model, Malaysi
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RC Internal medicine > RC321 Neuroscience. Biological psychiatry. Neuropsychiatry
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Arabic Language and Literature Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Psychology Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences
Depositing User:	Dr Usman Jaffer
Date Deposited:	27 Jan 2025 09:58
Last Modified:	27 Jan 2025 09:58
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/118825

Actions (login required)

View Item