Inclusive Postsecondary Education Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Inclusive Postsecondary Education Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities
Author: Daniel Claytor
Publisher:
Total Pages: 176
Release: 2018
Genre: Intellectual disability
ISBN:

In the last decade, the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 has provided students with intellectual disabilities access to attend colleges across the United States. The researchers have collaborated with the Tennessee Inclusive Higher Education Alliance to investigate parents' perceptions of college programs in the state. The researchers sought to identify parents' perceptions of how the program impacted their child, the factors that led them to enroll their child in an inclusive postsecondary education program, and what hopes and ideas of success they see for their child in adult life. The researchers used a descriptive case study design. Participants completed a questionnaire that gave parents the option to participate in a focus group and semi-formal interview to provide findings for this research study. Of the parents (n = 42) who completed the questionnaire, three parents participated in the focus group, and 14 were interviewed. Data analysis revealed emergent themes related to how parents perceived their child was impacted such as increased confidence and personal growth. Financing the program and transportation were barriers to involvement in the program. As it relates to the college experience, parents wanted their child to have the same academic and social opportunities as their non-disabled peers. These perceived benefits imply that inclusive college programs provide valuable training and education to students with intellectual disabilities. Education stakeholders interested in the advancement of inclusive postsecondary education programs have the support of parents who also value the opportunity of attending college presents for their child.

Factors Contributing to Learning Disabled Students' College Success-student and Parent Perceptions

Factors Contributing to Learning Disabled Students' College Success-student and Parent Perceptions
Author: Anita M. Zuber
Publisher:
Total Pages: 136
Release: 2003
Genre: Education, Higher
ISBN:

This study described the perceptions of learning disabled (LD) students with regard to the factors that lead to their current success in college. The 5 participants ages 19 to 34, are enrolled as full-time students at a public university in Pennsylvania. The study analyzed the responses of the students to an open-ended survey and a semi-structured interview. Additionally, a parent (or spouse) of each participant completed a survey and was interviewed. The student's confidential file was examined for documentation regarding their learning disability and support services. The study was guided by 4 research questions that examined the critical home experiences, school experiences, student's self-knowledge and current actions, and views regarding critical school initiatives. The results indicated that the 5 participants recognized the importance of learning to self-advocate by explaining their disability and requesting support from their professors. The students also acknowledged the value of the supports available through the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities. The Director and staff of the university provided direct training in self-knowledge and self-awareness along with making available tutors, alternate testing sites, and academic coaches. Also deemed effective were the high school supports such as challenging curriculum, classmates who were academically-oriented, participation in the development of the I.E.P. and attendance in the meetings, and supportive teachers who provided encouragement and risk-taking opportunities. Valuable home experiences included: communication and positive encouragement from family, opportunities for participation in extra-curricular activities, and community service activities. The results also suggested a number of initiatives for schools to implement in order to improve student transitions to postsecondary education.