Understanding the Applications of AI for Autistic STEM Student Mentorship

Abstract

Autistic college students in STEM face significant challenges in employment, such as low-pay and hiring discrimination compared to their neurotypical peers, despite existing mentorship programs for career development. This study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to enhance STEM mentorship for autistic students. Specifically, it examines students' acceptance of AI as a complementary support tool alongside human mentors, their previous mentorship experiences, their experiences and perceptions of AI, as well as their deeper visions for future AI integration in mentorship. Chapter 2 presents findings from an exploratory online survey of 203 autistic students, offering insights into their perceptions of AI-augmented mentorship, including perceived benefits, limitations, and areas of concern. Building on these results, Chapter 3 describes a follow-up interview study with 15 participants that explores their current academic and professional experiences typically supported by mentorship and their vision for how AI could support key mentorship activities. Thematic analysis reveals a strong desire for integrated, intelligent tools to facilitate online communication, time management, and emotional well-being, alongside valid concerns regarding the limitations and potential harms of current AI systems. The findings inform design considerations for future AI-supported mentorship and underscore the importance of accessibility and inclusion in the development of such systems. We conclude with recommendations for the design of future mentorship programs that effectively integrate AI to support the unique needs of autistic students in STEM. Further this work discusses the importance of universal, user-centered design for technology.