Employment and Community Engagement Outcomes for Deaf Individuals After College

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 32
  In Roundtable Session: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Intersectionalities and Perspectives Roundtable Session

Abstract

Educational attainment is positively associated with a host of employment and community engagement outcomes. This study examined the experiences and outcomes of deaf students after attending postsecondary education using a national longitudinal dataset. The analysis indicated that there were more positive outcomes for deaf youth that attended any type of postsecondary program (career/technical, 2-year, 4-year), compared to deaf youth that never attended any program. Program graduates were more likely to be employed, earn higher salaries, be registered to vote, participate in community organizations and were less likely to receive income assistance. Findings can help deaf students, guidance counselors, and transition specialists understand the implications of choosing various post-high school pathways.

Authors

• Jeffrey Levi Palmer, The University of Texas at Austin

• Savannah Lee Davidson

• Stephanie W. Cawthon, The University of Texas at Austin

• Lynn A. Newman, SRI International