Post-Secondary Education Ready?
Curriculum and Mentor Provide a Winning Combination
Council for Exceptional Children Journal - Teaching Exceptional Children
TEACHING Exceptional Children (TEC) features research-to-practice information and materials for classroom use, as well as current issues in special education teaching and learning.
Post-Secondary Education (PSE) Transition Services for Children with Disabilities
- Key laws and amendments
- Laws have transitioned from education for students with disabilities to the expectation that all students will attend PSE
Sytematic Review to Determine Best Strategies to Address the Challenges Faced when Transitioning to PSE
- Inclusion, vocational education classes
- Self-advocacy, self-determination
- Social skills
- Increase students' ownership of learning
- Transition Assessments
- Academic preparation and choosing a career path or major
- Understand financial aid options and budgeting
- Understand college norms and expectations
Enabled for College Program
Curriculum
- Self-advocacy/self-determination (role playing and individual's rights)
- Goal setting and ownership of learning (learning preferences, study skills)
- Social skills (email, Office of Access and Learning)
Mentors
- Positive role model
- Promote positive development
- Encouragement and support
Research Methods
Participants
- 52 seniors
- 80% low SES
- 52% have a disability
- 68% First Generation Students
Mixed Methods
Instruments
- Pre- and Post-Survey
- Mentor Evaluations
Results
- 98% graduated on time
- 87% accepted to PSE
- Confirmed 54% of seniors enrolled in PSE
- Confirmed 58% of seniors with a disability enrolled in PSE
- Fall enrollment in PSE concerns
- Tracking students
- Continuing to assist students in transition to PSE
Areas to Address
Conclusion
Increased number of students with disabilities pursuing PSE
Transition services provide resources and reduce barriers
A small service can have a large impact