Work

Visions for the Future: Exploring the Perspectives of Upper-Secondary Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Families

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Transition from upper-secondary school is a significant milestone for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and represents a time of possibilities—including opportunities to pursue career interests in the job market or further education, deciding where and with whom to live, and identifying further education. The purpose of this qualitative study was to better understand student career and life goals and the support they receive to achieve those goals. Method: Data was collected in spring of 2022 through face-to-face focus group interviews with 11 youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities attending a secondary education program in Iceland and seven family members. We used reflexive thematic analysis to analyze focus group transcripts. Results: Our findings indicate that students have goals for their post-school life; however, they do not feel they have the support or opportunities to achieve their goals. Conclusion: We discuss strategies that schools and communities can use to enhance support and preparation for post-secondary life.

Source: Education Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/educsci16091376

Authors: Evan E. Dean, Sara Stefánsdóttir, Linda Björk Ólafsdóttir

Institutions: University of Kansas, University of Akureyri

Language: English

Topic: Disability Education and Employment

Subfield: Safety Research

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,172