Making On and Off the Spectrum: An Inclusive Program to Support Executive Function, Social Engagement, and STEM Interests in Students on the Spectrum

Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. This study evaluated an inclusive extracurricular science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) program for middle-school students on the spectrum cocreated by OTs, educators, and program developers. The program demonstrated positive outcomes on student engagement, executive functioning, social participation, and interests in STEM. The presentation will discuss the collaboration model for the program and strategies used to support the engagement of students on the spectrum. Primary Author and Speaker: Yu-Lun Chen Additional Authors and Speakers: Kavitha Murthi, Kristie Patten Contributing Authors: Wendy Martin, Regan Vidiksis, and Ariana Riccio