Abstract:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant social interaction and communication impairments, limited interests and activities, and repetitive and obsessive behaviors, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Individuals with autism struggle in social relationships and require the development of relationships based on special interests. Interventions can enhance the social interaction and communication skills of individuals with autism. In addition to medical treatment, there are special programs designed for individuals with autism, one of which is horticultural therapy, which not only improves their social interaction and communication skills but also contributes to the development of vocational skills. The aim of this study is to track the development of an autistic student through horticultural therapy to demonstrate the concrete improvement of their social interaction and communication skills. Additionally, this study aims to provide guidance for the implementation of horticultural therapy for autistic students in other special education schools in Turkey. Based on the Student General Assessment Form developed by the Ministry of National Education, General Directorate of Special Education and Guidance Services, a development tracking form has been prepared for autistic students. Accordingly, the current status of an autistic student enrolled in Meram Melike Hatun Special Education Vocational School was determined. A study plan was created and implemented to improve the deficiencies in social interaction and communication skills through horticultural therapy. To monitor the development of the autistic student’s social interaction and communication skills, the student's family and teachers were asked to fill out the development tracking form at specific intervals, and the scores provided were evaluated. The horticultural therapy applied in this study can be applied to different autistic individuals as a supportive practice not only to impart social interaction and communication skills but also to provide vocational training.  

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