World Autism Awareness Day – TU Dublin Initiatives & Key Information

Published: 31 Mar, 2025

Information on TU Dublin Initiatives & Key Information to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day, by TU Dublin's Autism Coordinator, Garry Toner

April 2nd is recognized globally as Autism Awareness Day, promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of autistic individuals.
TU Dublin is committed to creating an accessible and supportive environment for autistic students.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference, not a disease or something to be "cured."
It affects social communication, sensory processing, executive functioning, and adapting to change differently for each person.
Many autistic students experience burnout, anxiety, or difficulties with time management and organisation due to academic pressures.
Strengths of autistic students may include deep focus, attention to detail, creativity, and unique problem-solving skills.

Sensory overload (e.g., noisy lecture halls, bright lights, crowded spaces).
Social expectations and communication differences (e.g., group work, presentations, networking).
Executive functioning difficulties (e.g., time management, deadlines, prioritizing tasks).
Access to support (e.g., challenges in obtaining formal diagnosis, difficulty advocating for accommodations).

Autism-Friendly Campus Initiative: Working to improve accessibility, quiet spaces, and inclusive teaching practices.
TU Dublin Student Support Services: Access to the Disability Support Service, Counselling, Career Guidance, and Academic Support.
Clubs & Societies: Encouraging inclusive participation in student groups to support social engagement.
Peer Support & Mentoring: Exploring ways to connect autistic students with mentors for academic and social guidance.
Autism Awareness Training for Staff: Ongoing training sessions to help lecturers and staff better understand and support neurodivergent students.

Clear and structured communication – Provide written instructions, outlines, and deadlines in advance.
Flexible teaching and assessment methods – Consider alternative formats for assignments and exams.
Sensory-friendly spaces – Designate quiet areas on campus for students who may need a break from sensory overload.
Awareness and training – Attend autism awareness workshops to better understand neurodiversity.
Encourage use of supports – Direct students to the Disability Support Service, Counselling, and Study Skills resources.

Respect personal space and communication preferences – Some autistic students may prefer written over verbal communication.
Be inclusive in group work – Provide clear roles, deadlines, and expectations to help with organization.
Avoid assumptions - Autism is a broad and varied neurodevelopmental condition, and each student experiences it differently.
Promote an autism-friendly campus – Encourage clubs, societies, and social events to be neurodiversity-inclusive.

Wear gold or rainbow infinity symbols to show support for neurodiversity.
Share resources and information about autism on social media to spread awareness.

TU Dublin Disability Support Service – Assists students in accessing reasonable accommodations.
Autism-friendly spaces & societies – Encourage participation in student-led neurodivergent groups.
External supports – Organisations like AsIAm, AHEAD, and Autistic advocacy groups offer guidance and resources.