A National Survey of Teachers' Promotion of Self-Determination and Student-Directed Learning

Abstract

This article describes the findings of a national survey of teachers' opinions regarding the value of self-determination and issues relating to teaching skills leading to this outcome. Respondents were secondary-level educators serving students with varying types and severity of disabling conditions. Findings indicated that a majority of respondents believed that instruction in self-determination was important, but teachers differed in their responses regarding the strategies taught and the extent and type of instruction provided based on the severity of the student's disability. Implications for educational practice are discussed.