Today I asked ChatGPT to describe an ideal college preparatory school for a bright but socially awkward student on the Autism Spectrum. I wanted to know what a “large language model generative ai” with access to vast amounts of data would say. ChatGPT shared the following with me in less than fifteen seconds.
An ideal college preparatory school for a bright but socially awkward student on the Autism Spectrum would have several key features:
- Supportive Environment: The school would have a supportive environment that recognizes and accommodates the unique needs of students on the Autism Spectrum. This could include access to trained counselors or therapists, social skills training, and accommodations for sensory sensitivities.
- Small Class Sizes: The school would have small class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention from teachers and opportunities for personalized learning experiences. This would also allow for more opportunities for social interaction in smaller, more manageable settings.
- Flexible Curriculum: The school would have a flexible curriculum that allows for students to pursue their interests and passions, while still meeting the academic requirements for college admission. This could include project-based learning, internships, or other experiential learning opportunities.
- Strong College Preparation: The school would have a strong focus on preparing students for college, with rigorous academic standards and support for college admissions processes, including test preparation and application support.
- Social Opportunities: The school would provide ample opportunities for social interaction, both within and outside of the classroom. This could include clubs, extracurricular activities, and structured social events that allow students to practice and develop social skills.
- Collaborative Learning: The school would encourage collaborative learning, providing opportunities for students to work together on projects and assignments. This can help students develop teamwork and communication skills, as well as build confidence in their abilities.
- Supportive Community: The school would have a supportive community that includes families, teachers, and administrators who are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all students.
Overall, an ideal college preparatory school for a bright but socially awkward student on the Autism Spectrum would provide a supportive, flexible, and engaging learning environment that meets the unique needs of the student and prepares them for success in college and beyond.
I believe that my chatbot friend is describing the Franklin Academy I know and love. I invite you to take a closer look.
PS: I took the photo above this morning. Spring has arrived in East Haddam, Connecticut.