Translating Career Development Policy Into School Practice: National Perspective on Using Individualized Learning Plans

Session Submission Type: Symposium

Abstract

This symposium offers a national perspective on the use of Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs; i.e., Student Learning Plans, Graduation Plans) that are now mandated in over 20 states. ILPs support students in setting career and life goal and then identifying secondary and post-secondary courses that will support them in attaining those goals. State policymakers are now looking at ILPs as a strategy to address gaps in students’ college and career readiness. The first presentation describes a 50-state policy analysis of ILP use, the second paper summarizes a number of studies conducted with 14 schools from three states over a four-year period. The final presentation describes a nationally vetted How to Guide for school counselors interested in implementing ILPs.

Sub Unit

• Division E - Counseling and Human Development / Section 1: Counseling

Chair

• V. Scott H. Solberg, Boston University

Papers

• Student Learning Plans: A Review of State Policies and Research on Effectiveness - Lisa Famularo, Nimble Innovation Lab, Measured Progress

• Individualized Learning Plans as a Promising Practice - V. Scott H. Solberg, Boston University

• “How to Guide” to Support School Implementation of Individualized Learning Plans - Taryn M. Williams, U.S. Department of Labor

Discussant

• Evangeline D. Harris Stefanakis, Boston University