Understanding the Lived Experiences of Teachers in Communicating with Autism Spectral Disorder (ASD) Students

Abstract

The study entitled “Understanding the Lived Experiences of Teachers in Communicating with Autism Spectral Disorder (ASD) Students” is a hermeneutic phenomenological study on how educators at the Harvest of Hope Foundation in Lucena City, Quezon, Philippines, experienced and made sense of communication with learners on the autism spectrum. Guided by the interpretive traditions of Heidegger and van Manen, the research explored the subjective meanings that teachers attributed to their interactions and how these shaped their day-to-day practices.

Semi-structured interviews with nine teachers revealed seven themes, namely: Understanding ASD students, Adaptive and Collaborative Teaching Practices, Teacher Motivation and Satisfaction, Family Engagement and Student Progress, Managing Professional Challenges and Well-being, Nurturing Future Readiness, and Pursuing Lifelong Learning and Professional Growth.

The study concluded that effective communication is not a fixed skill but a transformative process rooted in a teacher's willingness to understand each student's unique perspective. By documenting how teachers navigate this process, the research offers practical advice for creating more compassionate and context-sensitive educational environments. This ultimately contributes to a broader understanding that inclusive education is fundamentally about understanding the diverse needs of every learner.