User-Unfriendly: Examining IEP (Individualized Educational Plan) User Experience

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 11:40 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Centering Family and Caregiver Voices as Equal Participants Within Special Education (Table 6)

Abstract

This initial phase of a three-part study examined Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) document user experiences for parents/guardians and teachers of BIPOC students with disabilities. Participants (N=54) completed a qualitative survey on their experiences using IEPs. Data was cyclically coded and analyzed using user experience factors as a conceptual framework. Parents/guardians found IEPs lacking in accessibility, credibility, desirability, usability, usefulness, findability, and value. Teachers shared these negative perceptions but viewed value and usefulness somewhat more favorably and did not report on credibility. These findings highlight the need for a redesigned IEP experience that facilitates easier implementation for teachers and equitable participation for parents/guardians to promote more positive outcomes for BIPOC students with disabilities. 

Authors

• Dana Baker, Fairleigh Dickinson University

• Megan Benay, FullScale