Perceptions of Students with Disabilities regarding the Value of Technology-Based Support Activities on Postsecondary Education and Employment

Abstract

Transitioning from high school to employment or postsecondary education is a critical juncture in any person's life. For students with disabilities, the complexities associated with such pivotal decisions are compounded, increasing the need for transition preparation and ongoing support to develop self-determination, social, academic, and career skills. Although many programs have offered services to students during transition periods, there is little empirical research on the long-term impact of specific support activities, including those that employ computers and the Internet. This article reports the results of a retrospective survey of participants in a technology-based exemplary transition program for college-bound youth. It reports how participants perceive the impact of key components, including technology-enriched summer study and year-round computer and Internet activities, on their self-determination, social, college, and career skills. Recommendations for applications to transition programs as well as future research are provided.