AN INVESTIGATION OF ADVISORY TEACHERS' PERCEPTIONS ON USING MUSIC ACTIVITIES WITH CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Abstract

In general, children with autism experience developmental delays and difficulty due to neurological impairments. They need expertise who have greater understanding of autism and to be able to live in the society. The advisory teacher is one of the most important key persons for children with autism because they teach the children social skills. This study aims to investigate advisory teachers' aspects in terms of autism children's social interactions after using music activities. The participants consisted of four advisory teachers who had been supervising the students for at least 2 years, and 5 years' experience in taking care of children with autism at the Autistic Thai Foundation (ATF) in Bangkok. Data collection involved interviews conducted by four advisory teachers who observed and evaluate autism children participated in eight activity plans. The study showed the children with autism could express their needs and desires, join their peers for activities, and work well together. These findings underscore the valuable impact of music activities on enhancing the lives of students with autism.