Although outcomes for adults with disabilities are improving, many do not have the same quality of life experienced by their peers without disabilities; they are unemployed, underemployed, have frequent job changes, and may not enjoy friendships or social interactions. To diminish the gap between students with disabilities and their non-disabled peers demands career development and transition planning from high school to post school activities. Students with support from their families, contacts, schools, and agencies can plan, prepare, and organize reasonable and efficient connections to employment, education and independent living options. This article will guide the reader through (a) the history and impact of career development, (b) a discussion about models of career development, (c) essential components and (d) how career development can be integrated into academic and community arenas. Finally, ideas for collaborative efforts that promote and enhance career development and transition are presented.
This was an exploratory study that examined the introduction and use of Edublogs as a collaborative communication tool in an undergraduate preservice special education course. Participants were enrolled in a course that addressed transition and the development of individualized transition education plans for students with disabilities. Pre-and-post surveys were given to determine participants' knowledge, feelings, and experiences with the use of Edublogs, as well as their attitudes before and after the introduction and use of Edublogs. Inferential and qualitative data analyses were used to analyze results. Using a 7-point Likert scale with multiple item pairs, results of pre-and post-survey ratings indicated that participants' attitudes were significantly different in five out of fifteen variable pairs. Post-survey comments on knowledge, thoughts, and experiences revealed overall positive themes about the use of this Web 2.0 technology for collaboration.
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