| Amanda Hoffman
WestEd
Examination of the program of study and outcomes for youth with Individualized Eduction Plans (IEPs)
FINAL REPORT:
In general education, a youth's path and decision to attend higher education has been explored and theorized about in the field of college choice. Yet in special education, this is not the case. Youth with Individuals Education Plans (IEPs) are less likely attend higher education than their peers without IEPs in general education (Wagner, Newman, Cameto, & Levine, 2005), yet little is known why. One rationale for this gap in attendance is related to the poor academic preparation received by youth with IEPs (Horn, Berktold, & Bobbitt, 1999; Noel, 2007; Wehman & Yasuda, 2005). But how does this relate to the low percentage of youth with IEPs attending higher education? The purpose of this study is to examine the differences between youth with and without IEPs on college attendance rates when considering their academic coursework. The study will utilize the Educational Longitudinal Study of 2002 (ELS:02) database. Analytical techniques will include Hierarchical generalized linear modeling (HGLM) and propensity score. In terms of policy, this study will provide the field of special education and college choice an understanding of the relationship between the course of study for youth with an IEP on college attendance. It will also highlight how the course of study for youth with an IEP may differ from youth without an IEP on key academic classes. Finally, this study will provide the research community with an opportunity to evaluate the importance of comparison groups for youth with IEPs.
Back to Funded Research Grants Page |