Abstract:
This study detennined whether or not a high functioning autistic girl can develop game
structure strategies that may allow her to become an active participant in a game or sport
environment. This qualitative case study involved the in-depth observation and
description of one high functioning autistic student whose experience in a game setting
would be studied. The type of case study carried out was a combination of descriptive
and evaluative. This experience was investigated through structured, individual
programming. Through on-site observation, journal entries, and hands on instruction, I
was able to describe what progress the autistic student made in tenns of skill
development. The results of the study demonstrated that a high-functioning autistic
female has the potential to develop the necessary motor skills to participate in the chosen
sport of basketball. The observation results and field notes contributed to a movement
profile which described her habits of body. Teaching strategies and frameworks utilized
during the study were described and listed. Insights and commentary are further
provided. A thorough examination of autism and games programming is provided in the
literature review.
