“Nothing Separate”: Understanding Why Students With Intellectual Disability Choose Inclusive Postsecondary Education

• In Event: Sunday Roundtable 9:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: (Re)conceptualizing Inclusive Higher Education Through Student Experiences and Perspectives (Table 21)

Abstract

Increasing numbers of students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) enroll in Inclusive Post Secondary Education (IPSE). While there is a breadth of research on inclusive post secondary education, research in this field has yet to center those whom it impacts most directly- the students themselves. Utilizing a Disability Studies framework we analyze student’s personal statements in which they describe why they themselves want to go to college. By answering the research question “Why do students applying to IPSE programs want to go to college?”, practitioners, policy makers, and families can best align their practice and advocacy with those who it impacts most-students with IDD.

Authors

• Sara Jo Soldovieri, The IDEAL School

• Beth Myers, Syracuse University