ERIC Number: EJ1344412
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022-Sep
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1360-2322
EISSN: EISSN-1468-3148
Where to Next? Experiences of Adults with Intellectual Disability after They Complete a University Program
Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, v35 n5 p1140-1152 Sep 2022
Background: Adults with intellectual disability who attended higher education programs have reported increasing self-determination, developing social skills and forming relationships. However, there is limited evidence about what adults with intellectual disability do after they complete such programs. This study investigated the experiences of adults with intellectual disability after they completed an inclusive higher education university program in Australia. Materials & Methods: This qualitative study used a phenomenological approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adults with intellectual disability who had completed the program (N = 6). Data were thematically analysed and interpreted using Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory. Results: Participants developed lasting connections with mentors and staff but not with peers. Some participants accessed more opportunities, returned to study, increased topic-specific knowledge, and developed life skills; however, others faced challenges with transition from the program. Discussion: Findings highlight a need to explore ways to enhance the transition from the program to the wider university environment and/or employment. Suggestions for practice are provided to help inform future development of inclusive higher education programs for adults with intellectual disability. Conclusion: With appropriate support adults with intellectual disability can experience positive post-university outcomes and opportunities; however, limited social interaction with informal supports such as peers, challenges the inclusive model.
Descriptors: Adults, Intellectual Disability, Higher Education, Inclusion, Program Effectiveness, Teacher Student Relationship, Outcomes of Education, Opportunities, Knowledge Level, Daily Living Skills, Barriers, Adjustment (to Environment), Peer Relationship, Foreign Countries
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2191/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A