Francis, G., Duke, J. M., Brigham, F. J., & Demetro, K. (2018). Student Perceptions of College-Readiness, College Services and Supports, and Family Involvement in College: an Exploratory study. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 48(10), 3573–3585. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-018-3622-x

University of Notre Dame

The number of students with disabilities that go into college has increased substantially in the last 25 years. However, despite such optimistic rates, many barriers to education for disabled students hinder their progress and success in obtaining a degree. In order to identify means of supporting such students in their college journey, it is pertinent to study their perspectives and experiences regarding collegiate preparation, services, and support from their families.

Perspectives on Disability and Postsecondary Education

Student Perceptions of College-Readiness, College Services and Supports, and Family Involvement in College: An Exploratory Study

Transition Services through IDEA are meant to prepare students to achieve post-high school goals through interagency collaboration  and careful consideration of students’ interests and strengths. 

College Transition Services and IDEA

Family support is cited to be an important facilitator of a student with disabilities’ collegiate success. Decreased involvement is especially difficult for students whose parents and families played a highly proactive role in high school while less involved now given the move into college. The Family Education Rights and Privacy further complicates familial involvement by limiting communication between students’ families and college professionals through need for student waivers.

Family Involvement in Collegiate Success

Students reported the role high schools played in helping them prepare for the challenges faced in college. Proactive aid provided by secondary professionals allows students to connect with the necessary resources before and while going into college. Students lacking such support said more could've been done.

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